Defying the winter chill, the city of Lucknow turned up in impressive numbers on Sunday to immerse itself in the rich cultural tapestry of the Repertwahr Festival. The event unfolded as a vibrant celebration of art, music, and poetry, with attendees wrapped warmly in shawls and enthusiasm.
A Feast for the Senses: Activities and Atmosphere
Before the main stage sessions commenced, the festival grounds buzzed with lively energy. Visitors enjoyed the breezy ambiance while participating in a variety of engaging activities. Many tried their hands at pottery-making workshops, while others queued up to get whimsical caricatures drawn. The culinary offerings were a major draw, ranging from the city's iconic Tundey Kebabs to international delights like sushi and cakes. A popular photo booth also saw long lines of people eager to capture their festive moments.
Stage Highlights: From Soulful Poetry to Energetic Beats
The festival's Shabd stage was graced by the legendary voice of contemporary Urdu poetry, Waseem Barelvi. He captivated the audience by reciting his famous couplets and ghazals, his words resonating with deep emotion and timeless appeal. Later, indie singer-songwriter Ankur Tewari took centre stage, getting the crowd to groove to his popular tracks like 'Gehraiyan' and 'Dil Beparvah'.
The entertainment continued with stand-up comedian Gurleen Pannu, who forged a quick and strong connection with the audience through her sharp humour and fearless storytelling. Theatre enthusiasts were treated to a powerful performance of the play 'Ambaa', which showcased the unity and strength of women. A unique attraction was the silent disco by DJ Sangria, which drew curious participants. "I came for the silent disco today as it is a great thing to try at least once," shared visitor Anushree Ghosh.
Euphoria Ignites Waves of Nostalgia
The defining musical highlight of the day was the performance by the iconic band Euphoria. They set the venue alight with waves of nostalgia, performing their legendary hits like 'Maaeri' and 'Dhoom Pichak Dhoom'. The space reverberated with energy, transforming into a chorus-filled arena of shared emotion and powerful music, providing a perfect finale to the cultural extravaganza.
