- Folk tales and traditions come alive on the open-air stage on the second day of the Lokrang Festival
- Performances by artists connect the audience to Chhattisgarh’s cultural roots
The second day of the ‘Lokrang Festival’ was steeped in the fragrance of Chhattisgarh’s soil, the authentic emotions of folk life, and the vibrant hues of age-old folk traditions. At the open-air stage, captivating performances of traditional folk forms like ‘Loric Chanda’, Dadariya, and Chandaini introduced the audience to Chhattisgarh’s rich cultural heritage.
The event commenced with an evocative episode from the state’s popular folk saga, ‘Loric Chanda’. Shri Vyasnath Yogi and his troupe brought the saga’s narrative, emotional depth, and vocal traditions to life on stage. The folk music and traditional singing style infused the atmosphere with the true essence of Chhattisgarh.
This was followed by a performance of Dadariya by Shri Vijay Sahu and his group. The melodious tunes of Dadariya—deeply rooted in the folk life of Chhattisgarh—mesmerized the audience. Meanwhile, Shri Barsan Deshlahre wove themes of love, folk life, and human emotions into melody through the medium of Chandaini. The performances offered a natural glimpse into Chhattisgarh’s rural lifestyle, folk sentiments, and social ethos.
- Emphasis on Preserving Folk Arts and Encouraging Artists
Speaking at the event, Dr. Sanjay Kannauje, Director of Culture and Archaeology, stated that local platforms provide a vital opportunity for artists associated with Chhattisgarh’s folk forms to showcase their talent and receive encouragement. He remarked that such events are not merely a source of entertainment but also a powerful medium for preserving the state’s cultural heritage and passing it on to the new generation.
He added that folk forms such as Loric Chanda, Chandaini songs, and Dadariya are the hallmarks of Chhattisgarh’s folk life. Through their presentation and preservation, the younger generation connects with its roots, traditions, and cultural heritage. The ‘Lokrang Parv’ is a significant initiative that advances this very objective.
- Presence of Prominent Figures from the Cultural Sphere
Notable attendees at the event included Dr. Sanjay Kannauje (Director of Culture and Archaeology), Mr. Anil Kumar Sahu (Former Director), Mr. Umesh Mishra (Deputy Director), renowned Chhattisgarh poet Mir Ali Mir, senior journalist and photographer Mr. Deependra Diwan, litterateur Mr. Vijay Mishra, and social activist Mr. Udaybhan Chauhan.
- ‘Lokrang Parv’: Bringing Folk Art Forms Together on One Stage
The ‘Lokrang Parv’ provides a shared platform for Chhattisgarh’s folk tales, folk songs, folk music, and traditional folk dances. The performances on the second day of the event conveyed the message that, in this era of modernity, preserving folk traditions and passing them on to the new generation is equally vital.
The melodies of folk music and the vibrant live performances by artists on the open-air stage infused the entire atmosphere with the spirit of Chhattisgarh’s folk culture. The legend of ‘Lorik-Chanda,’ the sweetness of ‘Dadariya,’ and the soulful melodies of ‘Chandaini’ made the second day of the ‘Lokrang Parv’ truly memorable.