48 weave magic at dance festival

SD Sharma

Chandigarh, August 19

The magnificence of Rajasthani folk music and dancing culture came alive as 48 accomplished folk danseuses and artistes from various regions performed during the ongoing ‘Lok Nritya Utsav’, organised by the North Zone Cultural Centre (NZCC) and Chandigarh Sangeet Natak Akademi (CSNA), at Tagore Theatre here today. 

Opening up the show, Ustad Mehboob Khan and Sadir Khan doled out two of his favourite traditional folk songs — ‘Kesariya Balma and Nimbuda’ — capturing varied moods. The young dancers, led by Kavita, weaved magic with electrifying pace, stamina for swirls and footwork. Kavita danced straight to the heart of the audience to win a standing ovation.

Next came the Teratali dance with spiritual fervor and performed by Ganga Devi Group from Padarla district in Pali.

Shahariya Swang Group, led by Shrigopal Dhanu from Shahbad in Baran district of Rajasthan, presented a tribal dance. 

The audience enjoyed Bhawai Nritya, executed to perfection by Suresh Vyas. Another dancer Suresh filled the stage with thrilling actions.

Hosting the show, poet Rakesh Arora explained the features and historical significance of each dance. Chief guest Rakesh Kumar Popli, Director, Cultural Affairs, complimented Dr Saubhagya Vardhan, Director, North Zone Cultural Centre, Patiala, and Chandigarh Sangeet Natak Akademi  Chairman Kamal Arora for showcasing diverse culture traditions of other states.