Prayagraj: The colors of cultural diversity were seen on Wednesday at the Diwali Crafts Fair organized by the North Central Zone Cultural Center, Ministry of Culture, Government of India. The beats of Garba and Dandiya of Gujarat, the splendor of Chhapeli dance of Uttarakhand, the expressive postures of Kathak and the folk tunes of Birha mesmerized the audience. Artists from different parts of the country presented a beautiful glimpse of Indian folk art and cultural heritage through their performances.
The programme was inaugurated by lighting the lamp by the chief guest folk singer Sangeeta Rai, Anjana Singh, former Principal, Mahila Seva Sadan Inter College, Centre Director Sudesh Sharma and Advisor Kalpana Sahay.
The cultural presentations began with a Gujarati Garba and Dandiya dance performance by renowned Prayagraj dancer Sonali Chakraborty and her fellow artists. Dressed in traditional attire, the performers performed captivating dances, dandiyas in hand, to the melodious tunes of Gujarati folk songs. The applause and rhythmic beats of the dandiyas filled the atmosphere with a festive atmosphere. This performance was presented by participants trained in a summer workshop organized by the center.
Geeta Siradi and her group from Uttarakhand then presented the Chhapeli dance, showcasing a captivating glimpse of mountain folk culture. Their performance introduced the audience to Uttarakhand’s rich folk traditions. Newcomer Paridhi Ghosh, who won first prize in Kathak dance at the Brahmanad competition organized by the center, won the audience’s applause with her soulful performance. Her dance postures and rhythmic footwork brought the beauty of classical dance to life on stage.
Ajay Gangoliya, who came from Madhya Pradesh, enthralled the audience with his folk song performance. He infused the sweetness of folk music with songs like “Gauri ka Nand Ganesh ke Manava,” “Aija Maharaj Kanth me baithi ja Bhavani,” “Reshmi Rumal Balam Pallu Varu Re,” “Kuan Pani Kaise Jaoon Re,” and “Abke Bachai Le Mori Maai.” The audience applauded his singing.
At the end of the program, Jangbali Yadav and his fellow artists presented a Birha song. Through folk songs like “Raja ho chala Sangam nahai aayi” and “Bechari Sugiya balam se kahe, purva Prayagraj me lagal ba karari,” the artists wove the folk life and cultural traditions of Prayagraj into the tunes. The program was conducted by Abhijeet Mishra. On this occasion, Deepak Sharma, Organization Minister, Kashi Province, Sanskar Bharti, along with a large number of people were present.
