Unity in Diversity is India's Strength': Gulabchand Kataria, Governor of Punjab*
Udaipur, The two-day classical music and dance festival 'Malhar,' organized by the West Zone Cultural Center in Udaipur, commenced at the Darpan Auditorium, Shilpgram, with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp by the Honorable Governor of Punjab and Administrator of Chandigarh, Shri Gulabchand Kataria.
Addressing the audience, Shri Kataria emphasized that music and poetry have always been sources of inspiration. Despite the diversity in festivals, attire, instruments, and languages, the unity of India is evident in its cultural expressions. He remarked that India's true essence lies in its "Unity in Diversity," which is the nation's unique characteristic. He further noted that festivals and cultural celebrations play a crucial role in creating a stress-free environment for the masses.
Furkan Khan, Director of the West Zone Cultural Center, mentioned that this annual festival, which celebrates the joy of the monsoon season, has gained significant popularity over the years.
On Saturday evening, Dr. Ashwin M. Dalvi performed on the Surbahar at the Darpan Auditorium, accompanied by Mrinal Upadhyay on the Pakhawaj and Dwij Gandharv on the Tabla. Dr. Dalvi, an accomplished Sitar and Surbahar player and music composer, provided an introduction to the origin of the Surbahar, highlighting its importance in Indian classical music. He noted that the Surbahar is often referred to as the sibling of the Rudra Veena.
Following this, a Kathak dance troupe presented a performance inspired by the Malhar Raga, depicting nature's rainfall, the dance of peacocks, and the graceful movements of deer through vocal expressions in Raga Malhar. The music was composed by Ustad Sameer Ullah Khan, the Khalifa of the Kirana Gharana. The performance included compositions in Tarana and a piece based on Meera Bai's poem "Badal Dekh Dari Ho..." in Raga Malhar. The performance also featured traditional Rajasthani Miyan Ki Malhar, with dance choreography by the late Guru Kundan Lal Gangani. The troupe then performed compositions in Taal Saade Nau, including Ganesh Paran and various rhythmic patterns.
The third segment of the performance was based on Raga Bageshree, featuring Krishna-themed poetry, highlighting the essence of Rajasthan's soil and the vibrant colors of the state. The performance concluded with a devotional presentation of "Radhe Govind Bhajo," marking the occasion of Janmashtami.
The Kathak dance was performed by artists Nayanika Gangani, Nandani Khandelwal, Priyanka Kapil, Harshiya Kamboj, Rahul Kumar, Ashish Kathak, Dev Saxena, Piyush Chauhan, and Deepak Khanna. They were accompanied by Pandit Yogesh Gangani on the Tabla, Pandit Ashish Gangani on the Pakhawaj, Ghulam Mohammad on the Sarangi, and Hariharan Sharan Bhatt on the Sitar. The music and vocal compositions were crafted by Ustad Sameer Ullah Khan. Pandit Harish Gangani later delivered a solo performance titled "Mayur Ki Gat." The event was compered by Ompal, and attended by the center's officials and staff. The festival was made memorable by the exquisite performances of renowned classical music and dance artists.
On Sunday, August 25, 2024, the festival will continue with a flute recital by Shri Chetan Joshi, followed by a dance performance by the troupe of Padma Shri Ranjana Gauhar. Admission to the event is free.
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