The Shilpgram Utsav 2024 will commence on December 21 with a spectacular presentation of folk arts. Governor of Rajasthan and Chairperson of the West Zone Cultural Centre, Shri Haribhau Kisanrao Bagde, will inaugurate the event with a traditional drumbeat. Esteemed dignitaries, including Udaipur MP Shri Mannalal Rawat, Chittorgarh MP Shri C.P. Joshi, Rajya Sabha MP Shri Chunnilal Garasia, Udaipur City MLA Shri Tarachand, and Udaipur Rural MLA Shri Phool Singh Meena, will grace the occasion.
This year’s theme, “Lok Ke Rang - Lok Ke Sang,” celebrates the vibrant hues of folk culture. Over 800 folk artists from 20 states will perform, showcasing India's rich artistic heritage across 65 cultural troupes.
Key Highlights
Dr. Komal Kothari Memorial Lifetime Achievement Award:
This year’s prestigious award will be conferred upon Shri Ganpat Sakharam Masge, a puppeteer and Chitrakathi artist from Maharashtra, and Dr. Roop Singh Shekhawat, a Bhavai artist from Rajasthan. Each will receive a silver plaque and ₹2.51 lakh.
Cultural Programs:
The inaugural day features two captivating performances, “Rhythm of India” and “Color of India”. The former is a symphony of 50 musical instruments, while the latter is a choreographed dance by 200 artists from 14 states, directed by renowned choreographer Sushil Sharma.
Daily Performances and Attractions:
Daylong folk dance presentations on various stages.
Evening shows at 6 PM featuring diverse regional art forms like Bihu, Lavani, Chhau, Kalbelia, and many more.
Unique acts like puppetry, Pithora painting, and Gauri character puppets.
Comedy acts for entertainment.
Special Features
Artisan Stalls:
Around 400 stalls featuring crafts from 24 states, including wool products from Jodhpur, jute items from Kolkata, and tribal crafts from TRIFED. Live demonstrations of traditional crafts like pottery, weaving, and lac bangles will also be arranged.
Food Zones:
Four food zones offering delicacies from 12 states.
Workshops and Exhibitions:
Tribal masks created during Shilpgram workshops.
Zodiac sculptures crafted by young sculptors.
Artworks displayed at Sangam Hall.
Audience Participation:
The “Hivda Ri Hook” program (December 22–29, 12–4 PM) invites spectators to perform or participate in cultural quizzes. Winners will receive Shilpgram mementos.
Documentary Screenings:
Documentaries on folk art and crafts by the West Zone Cultural Centre will be screened to raise awareness about preserving India’s heritage.
Ambience and Decor
The fairgrounds will reflect tribal and folk themes, with the main entrance adorned in Gujarat’s Pithora art and the main stage designed by Bengali artisans.
Free Entry on Opening Day
Entry to the event on the first day is free from 3 PM onwards.
With 10 days of vibrant celebrations, Shilpgram Utsav promises to be a confluence of art, culture, and tradition, offering something unique and enchanting for every visitor.