WZCC Udaipur and Directorate of Cultural Affairs, Mumbai organised two-day ‘Warsaa Sahyadricha’ festival in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, August 18. Governor of Rajasthan, Haribhau Kisanrao Bagde, inaugurated the two-day cultural festival “Warsaa Sahyadricha” organised by the Directorate of Cultural Affairs, Maharashtra State, Mumbai, and the West Zone Cultural Centre (WZCC), Udaipur under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India. The grand opening took place at MIT College’s Manthan Hall in a dignified atmosphere.

Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Bagde said that such festivals have kept alive India’s folk culture for thousands of years. He described the confluence of folk artists from different states as a unique and enriching event. He appreciated the commendable role of WZCC Udaipur in preserving and promoting traditional art and culture. The program began with deep prajwalan and worship of Lord Nataraja, followed by the National Anthem and Maharashtra State Song.

WZCC Director Furqan Khan delivered the welcome address and expressed gratitude to all departments, dignitaries, and supporting institutions. On this occasion, Governor Bagde, MLC Anuradha Chavan, and MLA Arjun Khotkar were felicitated with shawls, floral bouquets, and mementos. The stage was compered by Mohita Dixit and Milind Ramesh Kulkarni.

Day One Highlights: Musical Symphony and Folk Dance Extravaganza

The first day turned Manthan Hall into a vibrant stage for cultural unity. The Musical Symphony blended Rajasthan’s folk instruments like khartal, poongi (been), chautara, kamaycha, sarangi, matka, morchang, and dholak with Kutch’s veena, jodia pawa, gamelu, manjira, and Maharashtra’s nal and tutari (bugle). This fusion filled the hall with rhythmic energy.

The choreographed segment, directed by Santosh Nair, showcased an array of folk dances:

• Maharashtra’s Gondhal and Lavani

• Goa’s Samai

• Rajasthan’s Chari and Kalbeliya

• Gujarat’s Rathwa and Siddi Dhamal

• Manipur’s Pung Dhol Cholam

• West Bengal’s Purulia Natua

• Punjab’s Bhangra

The audience responded with thunderous applause as the hall echoed with cheers.

The cultural flow returned to Marathi traditions with Bharud singing by folk artist Ganeshchandan Shive. Using allegories and double meanings, Bharud conveyed moral and philosophical messages, a tradition popularised in the 16th century by Saint Eknath. The performance drew repeated claps and engagement from the audience.

Day Two Preview: Krishna the Liberator

On Tuesday, the program will feature renowned Kathak dancer Shama Bhate presenting her famous ballet “Krishna the Liberator”, depicting Lord Krishna’s role in protecting people and Gopis from adversities, as well as his deep love for nature and the environment.

Alongside, the evening will include another round of Musical Symphony, choreographed group presentations, and a captivating Lavani performance by Pramila Suryavanshi, promising to enthrall art lovers.