RudAbha open mic, a movement of community expression, returns

On Sunday evening, after five-long-years of silence brought on by the Covid pandemic, the Indian Idol Academy in Ludhiana transformed into a sanctuary of verse and voice as RudAbha, a city-based NGO dedicated to art, culture, and community expression, hosted the 12th edition of its much-loved RudAbha Poetry Mic.

The revival was more than just an event — it was a homecoming for poets and lovers of language. Founded as a modest experiment in community expression, RudAbha has grown into one of India’s youngest and most vibrant poet collectives, with members spanning the country.

Its return drew an enthusiastic gathering of poetry lovers, young artists, and creative voices eager to reconnect with the essence of live performance.

The evening unfolded with heartfelt recitations by emerging and experienced poets, including Kamal Kumar, Ravinandan Sharma, Shanti Jain, Geeta Dutt, Satpal Singh, Rohita Mehra, Rajinder Rajan, and Jass Ghafil.

Their pieces ranged from deeply personal reflections to sharp social commentary, each bringing rhythm, tenderness and the lived truth to the stage.

Audience members described the gathering as intimate, electric, and healing with the event’s guidelines — one poem per performer, a five-minute limit, and a strict no-hate policy — ensuring that every voice was heard with respect.

“We began with just a room and a mic,” recalled Sandeep Dutt, founder of RudAbha. “But what we have built is a space where poetry isn’t performed — it’s lived. RudAbha has always been about giving artists a home, a space where expression is respected and creativity is celebrated. This edition was about reclaiming that space, together.”

The evening also featured a special collaboration with Indian Idol Academy. In a symbolic moment, young singer Ravi Singh Rajput unveiled the poster of his upcoming devotional album Antaryatra, comprising nine songs. The initiative reflects RudAbha’s commitment to providing a promotional stage for emerging artists, extending its cultural mission beyond poetry to music and performance.

For many in attendance, the event was a reminder of the power of community spaces in nurturing creativity. “It felt like stories paused during Covid were finally finding their way back,” said Reetika, an audience member. “The energy was raw, the voices diverse, and the connection immediate.”

As the final verses echoed through the hall, RudAbha’s return felt less like a redux and more like a continuation — of bonds waiting to be rekindled and voices waiting to be heard. With future editions already in the works, Ludhiana’s poetry scene seems poised for a new season of expression. And RudAbha, true to its name, remains the heartbeat of that movement.