Udaipur : The much-anticipated Shilpgram Festival 2024 kicked off on Saturday evening in Udaipur, showcasing India’s vibrant cultural tapestry. Organized by the West Zone Cultural Centre (WZCC) under the aegis of the Union Ministry of Culture, the 10-day festival, running from December 21 to December 30, promises an immersive journey into the country’s rich art, craft, and folklore.
Governor Highlights India’s Cultural Legacy
Inaugurating the festival, Rajasthan Governor Haribhai Bagde lauded India’s deep-rooted cultural heritage, emphasizing that the essence of Indian traditions is indomitable. Recalling the legacy of Maharana Pratap, he noted, “The valiant warrior made Mewar’s land sacred and upheld our culture even in the face of challenges.”
Governor Bagde struck the ceremonial drum to officially open the festival. Alongside him were Member of Parliament Mannalal Rawat and MLA Phool Singh Meena, who attended as special guests. WZCC Director Furkan Khan extended a warm welcome to the dignitaries and shared insights into the festival’s significance.
Shilpgram: A Confluence of Cultures
Governor Bagde praised Shilpgram for uniting India’s diverse cultural expressions under one roof. “This is a unique platform where artisans and performers from across states showcase their craft, cuisine, and traditions,” he said. The Governor commended the WZCC team for organizing such an impactful event and extended his best wishes for its success.
This year’s theme, “Lok ke Rang, Lok ke Sang” (Colors of the People, with the People), sets the tone for a vibrant celebration of folk arts. The festival is expected to draw art and culture enthusiasts from Mewar, across India, and even from overseas, blending entertainment with education about India’s cultural diversity.
Lifetime Achievement Awards Honor Folk Legends
The event also saw the prestigious Dr. Komal Kothari Lifetime Achievement Awards presented to two legends of folk art:
- Dr. Roop Singh Shekhawat for his contributions to Bhavai folk dance.
- Ganpat Sakharam Masge for his mastery of puppetry and painting.
Each recipient was awarded a silver plaque and a cash prize of ₹2.51 lakh, recognizing their lifelong dedication to preserving traditional art forms.
Music and Dance Set the Stage Ablaze
The opening night came alive with “Rhythm of India – Musical Symphony”, featuring over 50 artists playing more than two dozen traditional instruments. Their melodious tunes transformed Shilpgram’s open-air stage into a symphonic haven, earning thunderous applause from the audience.
Another highlight was “Colors of India”, a collective folk dance performance by 225 dancers representing 15 different forms of Indian dance. Their synchronized movements and vibrant costumes left the crowd mesmerized.
Upcoming Highlights: Union Minister to Visit
Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat is slated to visit Shilpgram on Sunday. He is expected to tour the festival grounds at 2:30 PM, further boosting the event’s prominence.
“Hivda Ri Hook” Program Kicks Off
From Sunday, the festival will host “Hivda Ri Hook”, a unique platform for music lovers of all ages to showcase their singing talent. Whether performing folk songs or sharing heartfelt melodies, participants will get a chance to shine on the Banjara Stage daily from 12 PM to 4 PM until December 29.
Adding to the excitement, the program will feature a cultural quiz, where art enthusiasts can win exclusive Shilpgram mementos by answering questions about Indian culture.
Shilpgram’s Legacy of Unity
Shilpgram continues to be a beacon of cultural unity, celebrating India’s diversity through art, craft, and cuisine. With its engaging lineup of performances, workshops, and interactive sessions, this year’s festival is poised to captivate audiences and leave a lasting impression on everyone who attends.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.