The fifth edition of the Deshaj festival kicked off with immense cultural splendor, transforming Lucknow's Ram Manohar Lohia Park into a vibrant tapestry of India's folk traditions on Saturday. Organized by the Sonchiraiya Foundation, the two-day event saw participation from over 300 folk artists from across the nation, drawing an enthusiastic audience that braved the cold evening breeze to witness the spectacle.
A Grand Inauguration and Dazzling Array of Performances
The festival was formally inaugurated by a group of distinguished dignitaries including Padamshree Vidya Bindu Singh, actor Jaiprada Menon, Usha Awasthi, Yatindra Mishra, and noted folk singer Malini Awasthi. The opening day was dedicated to showcasing the profound beauty and diversity of India's intangible cultural heritage through powerful live performances.
The audience was treated to a mesmerizing journey across states. The energetic Chhau dance from Bihar captivated everyone with its martial arts movements, expressive masks, and dramatic narrative style. From Rajasthan, the graceful Ghoomar enchanted spectators as dancers in swirling skirts created a regal atmosphere with their circular motions and rhythmic claps.
Highlights and Special Tributes
The spirit of Punjab came alive with the lively Giddha performance, where dancers energized the crowd with robust footwork and joyful expressions to the traditional song ‘Waladiye’. The festival's canvas was further enriched by performances like Saangi from Maharashtra, Gond Mari from Chhattisgarh, Theyyam from Kerala, and Cherav from Mizoram.
One of the most anticipated segments was the debut of the Dangi folk dance from Gujarat. A defining moment of their act was the formation of a dramatic human pyramid, culminating with a woman being lifted to the top holding a sword aloft. This powerful gesture was a tribute to the strength and celebrated role of women, earning heartfelt praise from Malini Awasthi, the head of Sonchiraiya Foundation.
Recognition and a Grand Finale
In a gesture of appreciation, Prof. Mandavi Singh, Vice Chancellor of Bhatkhande, felicitated the performing artists with shawls. The first day of Deshaj 2025 concluded on a high note with a powerful and soulful musical performance by renowned folk singer Kutle Khan from Rajasthan, leaving the audience enthralled and setting the stage for the second day of celebrations.
Now in its fifth successful year, Deshaj has firmly established itself as a premier platform for folk artists, playing a crucial role in preserving and promoting India's diverse regional art forms for contemporary urban audiences. The festival's continued growth underscores a rising appreciation for grassroots cultural expressions.
