Prayagraj: The North Central Zone Cultural Centre (NCZCC)’s Muktakash stage, adorned with the glow of lamps and the vibrant colors of folk culture, resonated with applause once again on Tuesday evening. The seventh day of the Diwali Crafts Fair witnessed a confluence of India’s diverse cultural traditions, captivating the audience. The sweetness of folk songs, the rhythm of dance, and the echo of devotional tunes created a festive atmosphere. India’s unity in diversity was reflected on a single stage, with the Ganga Aarti being performed at one stage and the dance moves of tribal folk dances at another. The people of Prayagraj not only delighted in these performances but also became acquainted with the rich folk heritage of various states. The cultural evening was inaugurated by Chief Guest Professor Ramashankar Verma, Director, MNIT, Prayagraj, and Centre Director Sudesh Sharma, lighting the lamp. Program Advisor Mrs. Kalpana Sahay welcomed the Chief Guest with a bouquet of flowers. A series of colorful performances followed.

Under the Guru-Shishya tradition run by NCZCC, the trained children of Vyakhya Kendra (Nivedita Shiksha Sadan, Varanasi) gave wonderful performances on folk songs like “Ras-Ras Pauwa Dharomori Devi”, “Jhula Ko Pad Gaya Anganwa Ke Daar Pe”, “Har-Har Karti Chali Jab Ganga”, “Kaanch Hi Bairan Ke Bahgiya” and “Piya Mehndi Liyaida Moti Jheel Se” which were appreciated by the audience with applause.

After this, folk singer Shobha Upadhyay filled the pandal with folk fragrance with songs like “Chhote-Chhote Madai Sankar”, “Khori Bar Peer Ki Chhaon Mein”, “Khan-Khan Khankela Kanganwa” and “Suraj Mukh Na Jaibe”. Taking forward the tradition of folk music, Birha singer Sapna Pal delighted the audience with songs like “Devi Vandana Maihar Nagariya Ki Rani Ho Maharani Ho” and “Karai Chala Sugreev Aaj Ladaiya Bali Bhaiya Se”.

In the series of dances, Padmashree Arjun Dhruve and his group gave a wonderful performance of Baiga Pardhouni and Karma dance, bringing alive the tribal culture of Madhya Pradesh. The number of visitors is increasing day by day in this Diwali Crafts Fair which is going on till 20th October. While people are enjoying the arts and handicrafts of different states, Chanderi sarees, carpets, toys and local cuisine displayed in Shilp Haat are attracting a lot of people. The program was conducted by Priyanshu Srivastava.