Folk dance and drama mark ‘Lok Virasat’ at Dharamsala

The North Zone Cultural Centre (NZCC), Patiala, on Tuesday organised ‘Lok Virasat’ in Dharamsala.

Kangra Deputy Commissioner Hemraj Bairwa was the chief guest at the event, which was aimed at promoting the native art and culture, which is on the verge of extinction.

Dr Gautam Vyathith, a writer and scholar of folk literature, was the special guest at the event. Talking to The Tribune, NZCC Programme Officer Rajesh Bakshi said, under the Guru-Shishya tradition, budding artistes were trained by experienced musicians, art ‘gurus’ and conservationists working for the preservation of art.

During the event, mesmerising performances by Dr Janmejay Guleria and his disciples left the audience awe-struck. Om Prakash Prabhakar from Palampur performed folk drama, disciples of Sikander from Una performed folk singing, Chandra Bhardwaj Group from Dharamsala performed Jhamakada, Rajesh Kumar Group performed Gadyali dance, Poonam Kumari performed Kangri Giddha, and the artistes of Sangeetanjali Kala Kendra, Dharamsala, showcased popular folk heritage through their performance.

Renowned painter Dhaniram’s Kangra-style exhibition added to the charm of the event.

Dr Gautam Vyathith underlined the importance of preservation of folk culture for future generations.

Around 100 artistes from Kangra and Una districts participated in the festival.