Shilpgram Festival 2024: A Grand Confluence of Folk Culture Begins
Udaipur: The much-awaited Shilpgram Festival 2024, organized by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, and the West Zone Cultural Centre, Udaipur, commenced on Saturday. The Governor of Rajasthan, Shri Haribhau Kishanrao Bagde, inaugurated the 10-day festival by traditionally beating the "Nagada" (drum) at the Mukta Akashi Rangmanch (open-air stage) at Shilpgram. The opening ceremony witnessed folk artists from across the country showcasing their art, captivating both guests and visitors. The event was also graced by Dr. Mannalal Rawat, Member of Parliament, and Phulsingh Meena, MLA, Udaipur Rural, as distinguished guests.
During his address, Governor Shri Bagde highlighted that India’s cultural diversity is symbolic of the nation’s unity, which remains a subject of admiration worldwide. He emphasized that Shilpgram Festival is a perfect example of how India's diverse culture unites people from all regions. He also spoke about the importance of folk arts in society, stating that they are the essence of life and social consciousness. He stressed the responsibility of preserving these arts and encouraged people to support folk artists.
Shri Bagde further remarked that the clay aroma of Shilpgram attracts everyone and unites them. Referring to the great warrior Maharana Pratap, he mentioned that despite centuries of foreign rule, Indian culture remained intact due to sacrifices like those made by Maharana Pratap. He welcomed the folk artists and artisans who had come from across the country and encouraged the visitors to buy the handcrafted goods at the stalls, which reflect the hard work and dedication of these artisans.
The festival officially started with the "Nagada" (traditional drum) being played by Governor Shri Bagde and other dignitaries, following the traditional customs of Shilpgram. The Governor also read the Preamble of the Constitution and visited the premises, encouraging the folk artists with his presence.
The festival will run from December 21 to 30, with over 800 folk artists from across the country participating, as informed by Director of the West Zone Cultural Centre, Furqan Khan. The inaugural ceremony also saw District Collector Arvind Poswal, SP Yogesh Goyal, ADM City War Singh, and others in attendance.
**Dr. Komal Kothari Lifetime Achievement Folk Art Award Presented**
Governor Shri Bagde presented the prestigious Dr. Komal Kothari Lifetime Achievement Folk Art Award to Dr. Roopsingh Shekhawat (Bhavai folk dance) from Jaipur and Shri Ganpat Sakharam Masge (puppet art and painting) from Maharashtra. Each awardee received a silver plaque and a cash prize of ₹2.51 lakh.
**Inaugural Ceremony Mesmerized by Music and Dance Performances**
The inaugural ceremony featured an outstanding performance, "Rhythm of India – Musical Symphony," with more than 50 artists playing over 20 musical instruments from various states, creating a melodious atmosphere at Shilpgram. The "Colors of India" folk dance performance, featuring 225 dancers performing 15 folk dances, also captivated the audience.
**Union Minister Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat to Visit Tomorrow**
Union Minister for Culture and Tourism, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, will visit the Shilpgram Festival on Sunday, December 22. He will take a tour of Shilpgram at 2:30 PM.
**'Hivda Re Hook' Program to Begin Tomorrow**
The "Hivda Re Hook" program will begin on Sunday, December 22. This unique event allows music lovers of all ages to showcase their talent. The program will be held at the Banjara stage, where participants can sing folk songs or express their emotions. This event will run daily from December 22 to 29, from 12 PM to 4 PM. During the performances, a cultural quiz will be conducted, and art lovers answering correctly will be awarded with Shilpgram mementos.
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