Living up to the reputation of being great hosts, the Shilpgram Festival today turned the spotlight on Rajasthan culture and traditions.

According the honor to the guests, the first four days were dedicated to the neighboring states of Maharashtra, Goa and Gujarat, and today finally the audience got to see the glory of Rajasthan.

The day started with the Aarti and Vandana followed by Kerwani dance by Gujarati artists and the Dashavatar opera by Gotipua artists from Orissa.

Traditions and dances of Rajasthan were given the go-ahead by pronouncing the Kuchamani Khayal – Rajasthan Mahima by Bansi Lal Khiladi, who is also the proud recipient of the “Tulsi Samman” and “Marwar Ratan”.

This was followed by the “Kuchi Godi” dance, where an artificial horse like caricature is used while performing the number.

Once again today the audience got to listen to the “Manganiar” by Gazi Khan, in which he sang the Lunagarh and Ambabari songs.

The Chakri dance performed by the Hadauti region (Kota) artists was followed by the Bahurupiya skit performed by Sikander Abbas and party. Pappu Bhai and Asif played the role of Seth and Sethani, while Mohammad Hanif and Sikander Abbas performed the roles of Guru-Chela respectively.

Artists from Kishangarh performed the Raavan – Jatayu rendition, which was followed by the Bhapang, by Ustad Jumme Khan Mewati. The Bhapang is an instrument like the traditional ‘damroo’, which is used by Alwar based Mewati Muslim jogis. This performance was enjoyed to a great extent by the audience and many even demanded a repeat performance.

The Kalbeliya dance by Jodhpuri artists was preceded by the Sahaariya swang by Hadauti (Baran) artists, where the performers paint their body and is usually performed during Holi

The other programs of the day were the Pugdi dance by Goan artists; Cherow or bamboo dance by Mizo artists; Opanna dance by Malayali muslim artists and the Hariyanvi Ghoomer.

Today being a Sunday, the audience was in full strength and this added a lot of charm to the Rajasthan Day at the festival.

Cover by: Mansoor Ali & Kali Garg

Photos by: Sayeed Ahmed