Prof. Satyakam inaugurated the 12-day Diwali Crafts Fair

Prayagraj: The campus of the North Central Zone Cultural Center came alive on Wednesday with the beats of the dholak and the echo of the drum group. Organized by the North Central Zone Cultural Center, Ministry of Culture, Government of India, the 12-day “Deepawali Crafts Fair” was inaugurated by Professor Satyakam, Vice Chancellor of Uttar Pradesh Rajarshi Tandon Open University, along with Center Director Sudesh Sharma, by garlanding the Ganesh idol and lighting lamps. The cultural programs began with a captivating Ganesh Vandana. Following this, the students of Saudamini Sanskrit Vidyalaya presented the Swasti Vachan (invocation of the name Om Swasti Na Indra Vruddhashravaah Swasti Nah Pusha Vishwavedaah). Renowned bhajan singer Ratnesh Mishra filled the atmosphere with devotion with bhajans like “Prabhu Hum Bhi Sharanagat Hain,” “Jaaki Gati Hain Hanuman Ki,” and “Rama Rama Ratate Ratate Beeti Re Umriya.”

Abhishek and his team then enthralled the audience with their performance of the famous Dhedhiya folk dance from Uttar Pradesh. Murari Lal Tiwari and his team performed Braj folk dances, bringing the traditions and colors of Braj to life. Chief Guest Prof. Satyakam stated that the Diwali Crafts Fair is a celebration of India’s diversity, creativity, and cultural spirit. He added that such events not only provide a platform for artisans but also bring folk culture to the masses. In his welcome address, Director Sudesh Sharma stated, “The center’s primary objective is to connect handicrafts, craftsmanship, and indigenous products with the public and strengthen the ‘Vocal for Local’ campaign. The soul of India still resides in the hands of its artisans, who shape Indian culture with clay, thread, wood, metal, and colors.”

The accompaniment was provided by Ravi Bachpayee (keyboard), Uday Kumar (tabla), Raja Bhatt (dholak) and Sahil Kumar (octopad). At the end of the program, Assistant Director Surendra Kashyap expressed his gratitude to the guests and the people present. Dr. Abha Madhur conducted the stage in her familiar style. On this occasion, all the officers and employees of the center including Kalpana Sahay, Pradeep Bhatnagar, Abhilash Narayan, Prof. Hari Dutt Tiwari and many eminent citizens of the city were present.