Semifinal and Grand Finale to be held in Chhatarpur on January 11
Lucknow: The audition round of Bundelkhand 24×7’s much-loved folk music platform ‘Bundeli Bawra’ has concluded successfully, with 34 talented participants securing their place in the semifinals. Organised in memory of legendary Bundeli folk music exponent Baiju Bawra, the initiative is Bundelkhand’s first and only competition exclusively dedicated to Bundeli folk songs.
The inaugural phase of the competition witnessed a record 2,735 entries, reflecting the deep-rooted musical heritage of the region. After a rigorous selection process, 34 contestants were shortlisted from auditions held across Jhansi, Hamirpur, Chhatarpur, Panna, Tikamgarh and Sagar, representing different corners of Bundelkhand spread across Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh.
The judging panel featured popular YouTuber Ankit Pandey, renowned Bundeli folk singer Jaiprakash Pathairiya, and Rohit Singh Chandel, Channel Director of Bundelkhand 24×7. Following the auditions, all eyes are now on the semifinal and grand finale, scheduled to take place on January 11 at Ambedkar Bhawan Auditorium, Chhatarpur.
The competition was formally inaugurated at Baiju Bawra’s samadhi in Chanderi, where floral tributes marked a soulful beginning, blending music, devotion and cultural reverence. Starting from Chanderi, the audition journey travelled across Bundelkhand, drawing participation from folk singers rooted in the region’s traditions.
The selection criteria extended beyond vocal ability, placing special emphasis on understanding of Bundeli lyrics, authentic folk expression, and emotional connection with tradition.
Speaking during the Chhatarpur auditions, judge Jaiprakash Pathairiya said, “The warmth and intimacy of Bundeli folk songs are unparalleled. Platforms like ‘Bundeli Bawra’ are essential to bring new artists into the spotlight.”
During the Sagar auditions, judge Ankit Pandey remarked, “Bundeli Bawra is not just a competition; it is an effort to give voice to the soul of Bundelkhand. The simplicity and truth of the soil are clearly reflected in the melodies heard here.”
Channel Director Rohit Singh Chandel, who served as a judge across all districts, noted, “Each district has its own musical identity. This platform is emerging as a powerful medium to preserve folk songs while connecting them with the younger generation.”
Sharing the channel’s vision, Asif Patel, Channel Head of Bundelkhand 24×7, said, “Our aim is not merely to produce a show, but to honour and recognise the folk artists of Bundelkhand. The voices discovered during the auditions prove that our folk culture remains vibrant and alive.”
Notably, Bundelkhand 24×7 has established itself not only as a credible digital news platform but also as a strong cultural voice of the region. Bundeli Bawra is an extension of this vision, strengthening Bundelkhand’s identity through folk music. As the 34 semifinalists prepare to take the stage, they are set to prove that Bundeli folk songs are not just a legacy of the past, but a powerful heritage for the future as well.
