Youths dance to folk beats at Shivratri fest
The second cultural evening of the international Mahashivratri Festival in Mandi witnessed an electrifying atmosphere as young audiences danced enthusiastically to the beats of popular Himachali folk numbers. The gathering was treated to a vibrant musical extravaganza, as a thunderous applause and whistles welcomed star folk singer Sunil Rana.
Rana captivated the crowd with power-packed traditional and contemporary hits, including Saan Saan Ae Mat Kar Raaviye, Maye Ni Meriye Shimle Ri Rahe and devotional favourite Shiv Kailasho Ke Vasi. His dynamic renditions of Chamba folk songs such as Nache Dhudua, Meri Jaan Raliya Wo Kheramla, Chanani Wo Karelanuan and Mahadeva O Mahadeva kept the audience on their feet. Tracks like Dheem-Dheem Dholki Ra Baja, Niki Dei Chhail Gadreti and Jeena Kangde Da further elevated the festive spirit, transforming the venue into a pulsating dance floor.
The evening began on a devotional note with Shiv Stuti presented by noted Chamba folk singer Kaku Ram Thakur. Blending Hindi, Pahari and Punjabi melodies, Kaku Ram enthralled the spectators with songs like Mitra Da Naa Chalda, Lak Tunu Tunu, Chil Badi O Kamlo and Dei Kadra Na Pai Dildara. His spirited Nati performances, including Rohru Jana Meri Aamiye and Neeru Chali Ghoomdi drew huge appreciation.
Special children delivered heartwarming performances, adding an emotional touch to the celebrations. Artistes such as Payal Thakur, Kishan Verma, Rajinder Verma and several emerging talents impressed the gathering with their vibrant stage presence. Bhawani Singh Pathania, Vice-Chairman of the State Planning Board with a Cabinet rank, was the chief guest of the evening. Cultural troupes from Gujarat under the NZCC and performers from Fardosh Band also energised the crowd with impressive presentations.
The programme commenced with a traditional Mangalacharan by Beeri Singh and party. Numerous other performers, including Ranjana Kumari from Hamirpur, Savitri Devi, Kuldeep Kaundal, and many budding artistes ensured that the second cultural night concludes on a high note, celebrating the rich folk heritage of Himachal Pradesh in a grand style.
