Lucknow: Bong Fest Season 3 unfolded with colour, energy and an extraordinary showcase of Bengali art, culture and creativity. The festival grounds at the Badshahnagar Railway Institute came alive as thousands gathered to celebrate one of Lucknow’s most vibrant community events.
Youth Dance Contest Sets the Stage
The day began with a high-spirited dance competition for children aged 12 to 18, where participants impressed the audience with their skill, confidence and the unmistakable flavour of Bengal’s cultural traditions. Their performances set an enthusiastic tone for the rest of the day.
Community Performances Celebrate Bengali Heritage
Members of Lucknow’s Bengali community presented a captivating cultural programme featuring songs, dance, poetry recitations and thematic acts, beautifully bringing Bengal’s artistic legacy to life on stage.
Distinguished Guests Grace the Event
The second day saw the presence of several notable personalities, including:
- Partha Sarathi Sen Sharma
- Leena Johri
- Amit Ghosh
- Ashok Ganguly
- DGP D.K. Thakur
- Dr. S. Munshi
Their participation added prestige to the celebration and encouraged performers across age groups.
Lifetime Achievement Award for Sanjeev Roy
A major highlight of the evening was the Lifetime Achievement Award, presented to Shri Sanjeev Roy for his remarkable contribution and lifelong dedication to dance and the cultural arts. The honour generated immense pride within the community.
Fashion Show Steals the Spotlight
A spectacular Bengali-themed fashion show, directed by Prof. Seema Sarkar, mesmerised the audience. The glamorous event concluded with the announcement of “Rupolokhi 2025”, a title won by Aparna Mukherjee from Pratapgarh, who received a trophy and a cash prize of ₹5100.
Naseerin Sheikh was declared the runner-up and awarded a trophy along with ₹2100.
All participants were honoured with certificates.
The jury for the show included:
- Arpita Bhattacharya – Mrs. Earth & Mrs. Lucknow 2019
- Dr. Vijaylaxmi Singh – Jaipuria Institute
Their guidance and appreciation added tremendous confidence to the contestants.
Dhunuchi Dance Electrifies the Night
The grand showstopper of the evening was the Dhunchi Dance, performed with traditional fervour alongside renowned dhakis from Kolkata and Lucknow. The rhythmic beats and synchronised movements enthralled the gathering, turning the venue into a spectacle of joy, devotion and cultural pride.
A Growing Cultural Landmark in Lucknow
Bong Fest has steadily emerged as one of Lucknow’s most anticipated community events, weaving together tradition, unity, inclusivity and cultural pride. Season 3 once again reaffirmed how Bengali culture continues to thrive in the city, bringing people from all communities together in celebration.
The festival continues to enrich the cultural fabric of Lucknow with each passing edition.
