Deputy CM Diya : With an aim to preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan, the sixth episode of ‘Cultural Diaries’ was held at the historic Albert Hall in Jaipur on Friday. Under the initiative of Deputy CM Diya Kumari, a grand performance of traditional folk arts of Hadauti region was held in this colorful program. Significantly, the event coincided with the 139th Foundation Day of the Albert Hall, adding to its significance. The enthralling performances by the folk artists not only enthralled the audience but also connected the tourists and locals to the cultural heritage of Rajasthan.
As the dusk set in, one after the other spectacular performances began on the stage, which gave a glimpse of the rich folk arts of the Hadauti region. In the Chakri dance Rup Singh Chachora (Chhabra) and his group gave a mesmerizing performance on the beat of drum – manjira with revolving chakras. Ashok Kashyap (Jhalawar) and his team gave a vibrant depiction of energy, unity and tradition through Danda Bindauri dance. The audience thoroughly enjoyed the performances and the whole atmosphere was filled with music.
After this Harikesh Singh (Shahbad, Baran) and his team brought alive the joy of Diwali and Holi on the stage through Sahariya dance. The folk artists presented the relationship between the forest and humans through their dance, which made the audience emotional. Jugal Chaudhary and his troupe from Jhalawar presented a unique performance of Kanagwali dance associated with traditional beliefs, while Bhavai dance was led by Kunal Gandharva from Kota. This time the artists presented an amazing view of their skill and balance by using the pot, the rim of the bicycle as well as the wheels of the bullock cart.
Directed by Vinita Chauhan (Kota), the Bindauri dance brought alive the joy of the wedding procession on the stage. Launched by the Rajasthan Tourism Department at the initiative of Deputy CM Diya Kumari, ‘Cultural Diaries’ is providing a platform to traditional folk artists and giving a new identity to the cultural heritage of the state. This cultural evening held at Albert Hall not only became a celebration of the 139th Foundation Day but also succeeded in giving a new direction to the traditional folk art and cultural tourism of Rajasthan.
Initiatives like ‘Cultural Diaries’ are ensuring the preservation and promotion of folk arts of the state, which will give international recognition to the cultural heritage of Rajasthan. In the next programme of this series, on Saturday, the Padma Shri awardees, the Ghani brothers, who have taken Mand singing to new heights, will perform.