On the 1st of September 2024, Nrityangahara proudly presented the second edition of its cultural extravaganza, Lavanya, at the prestigious Gauhati Commerce College in Guwahati. This vibrant celebration of India’s folk traditions brought together young artistes from various academic institutions to showcase their talents in music and dance. Supported by the International Performing Arts Festival (IPAF), New Delhi, and Numaligarh Refinery Limited (NRL), Guwahati, Lavanya highlighted the importance of folk culture in today’s rapidly modernizing world.
The festival’s theme, “A Cultural Event of Folk Dance and Music Presentation by Young Artistes,” reflected the core mission of Nrityangahara: to provide a platform for young performers to engage with traditional Indian art forms, ensuring their preservation and continued relevance. In an era where contemporary influences dominate, Lavanya serves as a reminder of the beauty and depth of India’s folk heritage.
A Grand Inauguration: Speeches, Ceremonies, and Honored Guests
The event began with an inspiring inauguration, setting the tone for an evening dedicated to the arts. Miss Swagata Sarma, the Project Director and Co-founder of Nrityangahara, delivered a compelling opening speech, emphasizing the importance of platforms like Lavanya in keeping the cultural fabric of India alive.
In her welcome speech, Miss Anannya Mahanta, Managing Director and Co-founder of Nrityangahara, expressed her gratitude to all the participants and supporters of the festival. She reiterated the role of young artistes in carrying forward the rich legacy of India’s diverse cultural traditions.
The lighting of the ceremonial lamp by the invited dignitaries added a spiritual dimension to the proceedings, symbolizing the triumph of knowledge and culture over ignorance. The esteemed guests included:
- Dr. Ranjan Kumar Kakoti, Director of Student Welfare, Gauhati University
- Dr. Hitesh Baruah, Chairman and Managing Director, Nemcare Hospitals
- Dr. Saumen Bharatiya, Founder and CEO, Byatikram Digital
The presence of these luminaries from various fields highlighted the importance of interdisciplinary support for the arts. Their active participation emphasized that art, culture, and education are interconnected pillars that shape the future of society.
Folk Dance and Music Performances: A Celebration of Northeast India
The cultural performances began with a burst of energy and enthusiasm, reflecting the deep-rooted traditions of Northeast India. Each participating college brought something unique to the stage, demonstrating the incredible diversity and vibrancy of the region’s folk culture. The following performances captivated the audience:
Diha Naam: The Soul of Assamese Tradition
Students from Gauhati University kicked off the event with a stirring performance of Diha Naam, a devotional folk music tradition that holds a special place in Assamese culture. Rooted in the Vaishnavite traditions of Assam, Diha Naam embodies themes of devotion, spirituality, and moral values. The melodious rendition by the young artistes resonated deeply with the audience, reminding them of the spiritual essence of Assamese folk music.
Dahal Tungri: Bodo Culture on Display
Dispur College presented Dahal Tungri, a traditional dance from the Bodo community of Assam. This energetic dance form, characterized by its rhythmic movements and vibrant costumes, is performed to celebrate community festivals and agricultural success. The young performers brilliantly showcased the liveliness of Bodo culture, with their synchronized steps and infectious enthusiasm.
Kareng Karbi Gusthi: Celebrating Karbi Heritage
Kareng Karbi Gusthi, a traditional Karbi dance, was performed by students from Gauhati Commerce College. The Karbis, one of Assam’s indigenous tribes, have a rich cultural heritage, and their folk dances are an expression of their close relationship with nature. The graceful movements of the dancers, combined with the soulful music, created an immersive experience that transported the audience into the heart of Karbi traditions.
Rodali: Mishing Culture Takes the Stage
Pragjyotish College enthralled the audience with their performance of Rodali, a traditional dance of the Mishing tribe. The Mishing people, primarily found in Assam’s riverine areas, have a deep connection to the natural world. Rodali, often performed during festivals and community gatherings, is a reflection of the Mishing way of life. The dancers, clad in traditional attire, mesmerized the audience with their fluid movements and intricate choreography.
Arunachali Dance: A Glimpse into Arunachal Pradesh
In addition to performances from Assam, students from various institutions presented an Arunachali dance, showcasing the rich cultural traditions of Arunachal Pradesh. The dance, characterized by its colorful costumes and rhythmic footwork, highlighted the cultural diversity of the northeastern region, leaving the audience in awe of the state’s unique artistic heritage.
Bihu: Assam’s Iconic Dance Form
No folk festival in Assam is complete without the lively beats of Bihu. As one of the most iconic dance forms of the state, Bihu is performed during the Bohag Bihu festival, marking the Assamese New Year. The young performers from the participating colleges brought this beloved tradition to life on stage, with their vibrant energy and joyful expressions. The audience was visibly moved by the performance, which encapsulated the essence of Assamese culture.
The Importance of Folk Art in Modern India
In today’s fast-paced world, folk art often struggles to find its place amidst contemporary influences. Yet, folk traditions like those presented at Lavanya are crucial in preserving a nation’s cultural identity. Folk music and dance serve as more than just entertainment; they are a reflection of the historical experiences, social structures, and spiritual beliefs of communities.
India, with its diverse cultural landscape, is home to an incredible variety of folk traditions, each telling the story of a unique community. Folk dances like Diha Naam, Dahal Tungri, Kareng Karbi Gusthi, and Rodali are not only artistic expressions but also vehicles for passing down values, history, and heritage from one generation to the next.
The importance of folk art extends beyond the cultural sphere. It plays a pivotal role in economic development, particularly in rural areas where such traditions are deeply embedded. Folk festivals attract tourism, generate employment, and help sustain local artisans and performers. Events like Lavanya thus not only celebrate culture but also contribute to the socio-economic fabric of the region.
Guest Speeches: Reflections on Art and Culture
The event was graced by two eminent personalities as Guests of Honour:
- Smt. Jina Rajkumari, an eminent folk artist from Assam
- Smt. Marami Medhi, a renowned Kathak exponent
Both guests shared their insights on the evolving role of traditional art forms in modern society. Smt. Jina Rajkumari spoke passionately about the need to preserve folk traditions in the face of globalization, while Smt. Marami Medhi emphasized the importance of fostering young talent in classical and folk art forms. Their speeches served as a source of inspiration for the young artistes in attendance, reinforcing the idea that cultural heritage must be cherished and promoted.
Vote of Thanks and A Commitment to the Future
The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks delivered by Miss Bishwasi Mahanta, Programme Head and Co-founder of Nrityangahara. She expressed her gratitude to all the participants, faculty members, and sponsors who made Lavanya a resounding success. Dr. Hitesh Baruah, Chairman and Managing Director of Nemcare Hospitals, also expressed his support for Nrityangahara, stating, “No matter what, I’ll always be there with the team of ‘Nrityangahara’ through all circumstances for their immense zeal and passion in promoting Arts.”
Nrityangahara’s Vision: Preserving and Promoting Folk Arts
Founded by Miss Swagata Sarma, Miss Anannya Mahanta, and Miss Bishwasi Mahanta, Nrityangahara has emerged as a platform dedicated to promoting traditional Indian art forms, particularly those of the northeastern region. Through events like Lavanya, the organization aims to:
- Encourage youth participation in traditional art forms
- Provide a platform for young artistes to showcase their talents
- Facilitate the preservation and promotion of India’s diverse folk heritage
In a time when globalized media tends to overshadow local traditions, organizations like Nrityangahara play a crucial role in keeping folk art alive. By engaging young artistes and connecting them with larger audiences, Nrityangahara ensures that these traditions remain relevant and continue to thrive in the 21st century.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Lavanya
Following the immense success of Lavanya’s second edition, the team of Nrityangahara promises to return with a third edition that will be even more grand and inclusive. With overwhelming positive feedback from the audience and participants, the organizers are determined to continue their mission of promoting young talent and preserving folk traditions.
Nrityangahara’s continued collaboration with organizations like IPAF and NRL reflects a growing recognition of the importance of cultural events in fostering a sense of community and belonging. As Nrityangahara gears up for future editions of Lavanya, it aims to expand its reach, involving more communities and showcasing a broader range of folk traditions from across India.
Conclusion: Lavanya’s Role in Shaping Cultural Narratives
In conclusion, the second edition of Lavanya not only showcased the rich cultural heritage of Northeast India but also highlighted the role of young artistes in preserving and promoting these traditions. Through their performances, students from various institutions demonstrated that the legacy of folk music and dance is in capable hands. As Nrityangahara continues its journey, it serves as a beacon of hope for the future of traditional arts, ensuring that these cultural narratives remain vibrant and relevant for generations to come.
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