Amritsar: Punjabi culture, traditions take centre stage at Khalsa College's Vaisakhi Mela

Amritsar, April 12

Tonga rides and aesthetically decked-up dancing ghodis were quite an attraction at the Vaisakhi Mela held at the historic Khalsa College.

Rich Punjabi cultural traditions were the highlights as festivities included a special exhibition of all things that make this harvest festival special in this part of the world.

Students and staff, wearing traditional dresses, had a great time as live music and folk-dance performances kept the mood peppy, while stalls, depicting cultural heritage of Punjab, gave a glimpse into the history of the festival as well as the lifestyle of people.

Just like a typical village mela, this one had stalls that exhibited traditional utensils, heritage looms, crafts of Punjab, sumptuous delicacies such as jalebis and pakodas, which were on offer as visitors enjoyed merry-go-round ride and several other activities at the mela.

Giddha, bhangra and jhoomer performances were presented by student groups and a play by drama students from the college were also staged. The display of gatka by college students and folk orchestra performance by the college band was the concluding highlight and an open invitation for one and all to dance their heart out.

Khalsa college governing council secretary Rajinder Mohan Singh Chhina said such celebrations connect the youth to the tradition of Punjab.

“The mela provides a glimpse of the composite culture of Punjab. There are many cultural practices which are going extinct now. It is good that we are making the youth aware of our rich heritage,” said Chhina. Principal Mehal Singh said they wanted to provide students an opportunity to witness the rich Punjabi culture. He said this also provides opportunities to students to compete in cultural shows and connect with the rich heritage.

Students recited ‘boliyan’ to welcome the festival of ‘Vaisakhi’, which is associated with the good times on the advent of harvesting month in Punjab.