Baazigars’ performance mesmerises audience at Saras Mela

The Saras Mela, which is in full swing at the Sheesh Mahal, has been helping artistes from various states showcase their talent on stage, and leading them are the baazigars (traditional acrobats) who have been entertaining the audience with thrilling stunts in the mahal’s courtyard.

A bazigar team from Dikh village in Bathinda district have been captivating spectators with awe-inspiring acts such as backflips over cots and stair railings, squeezing through bamboo rings, jumping through hoops and bending iron rods using neck strength. The team, performing with the support of the North zone Cultural Centre, Patiala, praised the Punjab Government and district administration for organising such events, stating that they help preserve traditional rural acts and games from fading into oblivion.

A young spectator, mesmerised by the stunts, remarked, “It feels like watching action scenes from a movie happening right in front of us.”

Team in charge Vakeel Singh shared that these performances were the result of years of rigorous training and daily practice to build the necessary physical strength and skill. He introduced team members Chhinda Singh, Satnam Singh and six others, along with Mithu Singh as their ‘dhol’ master, whose beats set the rhythm for their performances.

ADC Anuprita Johal, the event’s nodal officer, stated that until February 23, artistes skilled in various folk arts would get ample opportunities to showcase their talents at the mela. She highlighted that performances begin early in the morning at different locations within the mela site and urged Patiala residents to participate in large numbers.