Kalagram turns into mini India reflecting its true united colours

Kalagram turns into mini India reflecting its true united colours

by Ramesh K Dhiman

CHANDIGARH, December 4

With the sharp nip in the air currently sweeping the region notwithstanding, a heavy footfall was witnessed on Day Four of the ongoing 10-day Chandigarh National Crafts Mela jointly organised by the North Zone Cultural Centre (NZCC) and Chandigarh Administration, at Kalagram.

Avid music lovers enjoyed the folk colours of various states in the morning session, which started with a soothing rendition by Dr Sumangal in light vocal, which was followed by a dhadi singing. Prominent among the dances presented on the occasion were Jhoomer (Pb), Bhapang (Raj), Gudum Baja (MP) Bachha Nagma (J&K), et al.

Evening session was equally enthralling. Artistes performed pulsating folk dances, which included Pandav Nritiya (UK), Jindua (Pb), Dhamaal (Har), Karma (Chh-garh), Rai (MP), Swang (Har), Mallakham (Odisha), Rathwa (Guj), and Kalbelia (Raj)

In the ground performances segment of the day, Kachi Ghori (Rajasthan), kathputli/puppet won hearts of the audience, Behurupiyas playing various characters entertained the audience, especially the younger lot. Nachaar and Baajigar (Punjab) Nagada and Been Jogis, were the show stoppers of the day. Ecstatic visitors clicked selfies with these artistes.

Other highlights of the day were a special quiz session, in which 200-odd students took part, held daily for school children and others, besides a workshop-cum-demo in calligraphy, paper mache, clay modelling and paper cutting

Foodies had so much to choose from a range of lip-smacking fare of cuisines and culinary wonders to satiate their taste buds. The food court comprising 20 stalls offered a variety of delectable delicacies at pocket-friendly budget. A variety of chat items from Delhi and Pbi traditional food – Makki-di-roti and sarson da saag and traditional food from Rajasthan Bihar were in great demand for the young and the old.

In the evening segment of live performances included the soothing music from Himachal Pradesh, the land of snow. Kuldip Sharma, best known as the Naati King, and his troupe presented popular folk numbers and dance, to a packed-sardine open-air theatre.He started with the invocation and went on to dole out his hit numbers, including ‘Bariya yo tadka lana O thekedarniye…’, Shilpa Shimle waliye…’ ‘Rohru Jana Meri amiyein…,’ and ‘Daroga…’

Prominent among tomorrow’s performer is the prominent singer Salman Ali, the winner of 10th edition of Indian Idol, who is set to rock the evening with his robust singing.