Lucknow Sanatkada Festival 2024 Inaugurated with Cultural Splendor
The 17th edition of the much-anticipated Lucknow Sanatkada Festival commenced on Friday, marking the beginning of a five-day cultural extravaganza that celebrates the deep-rooted connection between Lucknow and Kolkata. The festival, which showcases the rich tapestry of Awadhi and Bengali heritage, was inaugurated across three iconic venues: Safed Baradari, Raja Rampal Singh Park, and the historic Amiruddaula Library.
Vibrant Inaugural Ceremony Sets the Tone
The festival kicked off with a colorful and energetic inaugural ceremony that captivated attendees from the very start. A highlight of the opening was a mesmerizing Dhaak performance by the troupe of Padma Shri awardee Gokul Das. The rhythmic beats resonated through the venue as 25 talented women dhakiyas took the stage, earning thunderous applause from the audience and setting a festive mood for the days ahead.
Fresh Theme Explores Cultural Bonds
Madhavi Kuckreja, the founder of the Sanatkada festival, expressed her enthusiasm for this year's unique theme. "We have curated a very fresh and engaging theme this year," she said. "Visitors will have the opportunity to explore and appreciate the exciting historical and cultural relations between these two culturally rich cities, Lucknow and Kolkata." This focus aims to deepen understanding and appreciation of shared heritage.
Honoring Artistic Excellence
In a special ceremony, the prestigious Meera and Satti Kuckreja Husn e Karigari lifetime achievement award was presented to Mahesh Kumar and Sunita Devi. The couple was recognized for their outstanding contributions to the delicate craft of miniature sculpture making, highlighting the festival's commitment to preserving and promoting traditional arts.
Captivating Performances Enthrall Audiences
The inaugural day featured a stunning performance by dancer and theatre artist Shruti Ghosh, who presented Kathak on classic songs such as 'tadap tadap sari rain guzri kaun des gayo sawariya' and 'subah bhi sar gayi aaj apne gulaal ki'. Her act was not just a dance but a dramatic narrative that traced the journey of Kathak to Kolkata with Nawab Wajid Ali Shah, poignantly depicting his exile, displacement, and the sorrow of leaving his homeland.
Musical Journey Through Love's Stages
The inaugural session concluded with 'Saat Maqam Ishq Ke', a musical dastaan presented by the Murshidabadi Project. This performance beautifully uncovered the seven stages of love through a blend of Indian folk, classical, and Sufi traditions. The recitation of poetries by legendary poets like Amir Khusrau, Kabir, and Mansur Al Hallaj added a profound spiritual and literary dimension to the evening.
Festival Highlights and Attractions
Throughout the festival, visitors can look forward to a diverse array of experiences:
- Culinary Delights: Savor authentic Awadhi and Bengali cuisine at food stalls.
- Shopping Opportunities: Browse and purchase exquisite handicrafts, jewelry, perfumes, and footwear from local artisans.
- Engaging Activities: Participate in interactive sessions, exhibitions, and guided heritage walks that explore the cities' shared history.
Exhibitions Showcase Artistic Heritage
Art enthusiasts will be treated to several thematic exhibitions, including:
- 'Raabta Lucknow Aur Calcutta Ka': An exhibition delving into the cultural and historical ties between the two cities.
- Begum Akhtar: Her Life and Legacy: A tribute to the legendary singer's contributions to music.
- Shahrashob: Letters between Calcutta and Lucknow: A display of correspondence that highlights personal and cultural exchanges.
The Lucknow Sanatkada Festival 2024 promises to be a memorable celebration of art, culture, and heritage, fostering greater appreciation for the enduring bond between Lucknow and Kolkata.
