Global storytellers, musicians enthrall audiences
The historic Gothic Hall of Gaiety Theatre in Shimla came alive with enchanting tales and soulful music during the Kathakar International Storytellers Festival. International storytellers Usifu Jaloh from Sierra Leone and Polina Tserkasova from Estonia captivated the audience with their mesmerising storytelling, while veteran musicians Shantanu Moitra and Mohit Chauhan engaged in a lively conversation about the art of storytelling and music.
Polina Tserkasova delighted listeners with a beautiful Estonian folktale about a hunter who rescues a trapped white swan. The swan, revealed to be a woman, secretly cares for the hunter. Upon discovering her true identity, the hunter gives her a choice to stay or leave. Choosing love and family, she remains with him forever, even when other swans call her back to the clouds.
Usifu Jaloh, known for his interactive storytelling, began his performance with a song, instantly drawing in the audience. He surprised everyone by singing popular Hindi and Punjabi songs, including Tujhe Dekha To Yeh Jaana Sanam, Tum Paas Aaye and Kuch Kuch Hota Hai. His storytelling was equally engaging, narrating a humorous tale about a woman struggling to pluck vegetables from a tree. When her husband chops a branch, it magically transforms into a man, adding a mystical twist to the story.
Adding to the festival’s charm, renowned Punjabi musician Satpal Wadali and his group delivered a mesmerising musical performance. He began with Sanson Ki Mala Pe Simrun Mein Pi Ka Naam, followed by soul-stirring renditions of Tujhe Dekha To Aisa Laga Jaise Meri Eid Ho Gayi, Tu Maane Ya Na Maane, Yeh Jo Halka Halka Suroor Hai, Lagan Lagi Tumse Man Ki Lagan, and the iconic Lal Meri Pat Rakhiyo Bhala Jhule Lalan.
The festival’s highlight was the Kisse Kahaniyan aur Matargashti session, where Shantanu Moitra and Mohit Chauhan shared their experiences and thoughts on storytelling’s evolution. Moderated by Prarthana Gahilote, the discussion delved into the deep connection between music and storytelling.
Mohit Chauhan, the festival’s Chief Patron and Cultural Ambassador of Mongolia to India, expressed his joy in bringing the festival to Himachal Pradesh. “Himachal is my home, and it’s a wonderful experience to see Kathakar here. This festival revives the tradition of storytelling, allowing people to explore different cultures, values, and traditions,” he said. He also shared insights from his journey, from his breakthrough song ‘Ab Ke Sawan’ to becoming one of India’s most beloved singers.
Music composer Shantanu Moitra emphasized that storytelling is a universal art form, with emotions remaining the same across languages and cultures.
Prarthana Gahilote, Director of Kathakar, highlighted the festival’s 15-year journey, celebrating storytelling across four cities—Delhi, Shimla, Jodhpur, and Jaipur. She expressed her excitement about bringing two legends, Shantanu Moitra and Mohit Chauhan, together on one stage. “Shimla residents witnessed a unique blend of stories, music, and melodies, making it a truly special experience,” she said.
