Grand Finale of “Cultural Diaries” on Saturday to Feature Fusion of Rajasthani and Western Music
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Jaipur: The fourth edition of “Cultural Diaries,” organised by the Rajasthan Tourism Department, is set to conclude on Saturday evening with a showcase of Rajasthani folk and Western musical fusion. Under the direction of cultural artist Vinod Joshi, his team will present an enchanting blend of traditional Rajasthani instruments and Western musical arrangements at Albert Hall.
Initiated by Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari, “Cultural Diaries” aims to preserve and promote Rajasthan’s rich cultural heritage. The series of fortnightly events has become a platform for showcasing Rajasthan’s art and culture to national and international audiences.
On Friday evening, Albert Hall came alive with mesmerising performances by Rajasthan’s folk artists. The event featured traditional Ghoomar, Pad Dangal, Manjira, Rim Bhavai, and a unique Kathak fusion that left the audience spellbound.
The evening began with a traditional Ghoomar performance led by Sangeeta Singhal. This time, the Ghoomar dance was given an innovative twist by incorporating multiple concentric circles of dancers. Following this, the Manjira dance saw a creative shift, with male artists performing in the front row, a departure from the usual female-led performances.
One of the highlights of the evening was the Pad Dangal, performed by Prabhulal Meena and his 15-member troupe. Known for preserving this heritage art form, Prabhulal and his team enthralled the audience with their improvisational storytelling and folk songs, including “Moti Dungri Walda Thara Bajga Baja” and “Gulabi Pagdi Ye Gaitor Ka Raja.”
The iconic Rim Bhavai, pioneered by Alwar’s Banne Singh Prajapat, showcased a breathtaking display of balance and rhythm. Accompanied by 10 artists, Banne Singh performed the folk song “Dhola Maro Alwar Suni Aayo, Bichhiya Bajna Lyayo,” leaving the audience in awe.
The evening concluded with a stunning Kathak performance led by Sangeeta Singhal, who seamlessly blended traditional Kathak with poetry, music, and folk elements. Her rendition of “Aeri Sakhi Moro Piya Ghar Aayo” added a touch of modernity to the rich tradition of Kathak.
