Lucknow: Emphasizing the transformative power of the arts, Uttar Pradesh State Commission for Women Vice-Chairperson Aparna Yadav said that young people who actively engage in music, theatre and other creative disciplines not only experience enhanced intellectual development but also cultivate greater sensitivity, empathy and humanity.
She was speaking as the chief guest at the concluding presentation of the Summer Theatre Training Workshop organized by the Uttar Pradesh Sangeet Natak Akademi (UPSNA) at the Sant Gadge Ji Maharaj Auditorium in Lucknow. The event featured a powerful staging of the play “Boond Pani Ki”, directed by noted theatre practitioner Shailesh Srivastava, along with a photography exhibition showcasing works created during the academy’s summer workshop programme.
Addressing the audience, Aparna Yadav said several studies indicate that adolescents associated with music, theatre and the arts demonstrate significantly higher cognitive development and emotional maturity. Drawing from her own experience as a trained student of music, she noted that artistic engagement helps nurture compassion, discipline and a deeper understanding of society.
“Many of the social distortions we witness today stem from the growing distance between young people and the arts. Creative pursuits help build balanced personalities and strengthen human values,” she said.
Academy Vice-Chairperson Vibha Singh highlighted the broader role of the arts in preserving cultural heritage and promoting social responsibility. She said the academy’s month-long summer workshops were designed not only to impart technical skills but also to connect participants with India’s rich artistic and cultural traditions.
“These workshops help shape responsible citizens by instilling discipline, creativity and cultural awareness alongside artistic excellence,” she said.
The 30-day programme, held from May 18 to June 22, attracted nearly 400 participants and offered training in classical and semi-classical music, Kathak, tabla, Awadhi folk music, devotional and ghazal singing, theatre, photography and public anchoring under the guidance of distinguished experts from their respective fields.
A Play Celebrating Courage and Social Justice
The highlight of the evening was the presentation of “Boond Pani Ki”, a theatrical production jointly mounted by the Uttar Pradesh Sangeet Natak Akademi and Manjushree Lucknow. Conceived and directed by Shailesh Srivastava, the play drew inspiration from the life and sacrifice of freedom fighter Uda Devi Pasi, one of the unsung heroines of the 1857 uprising.
The production blended history with contemporary social themes, portraying struggles related to social discrimination, dignity and access to basic rights. Through songs, dramatic sequences and stirring performances, the play highlighted the courage of women who challenge injustice and fight for self-respect.
Beginning with a patriotic invocation celebrating the spirit of resistance, the narrative traced the journey of Uda Devi and her extraordinary bravery during the First War of Independence. The production also explored social inequalities through the metaphor of access to water, using powerful dialogues and songs to advocate equality and empowerment.
The audience responded enthusiastically to several scenes calling for social change and women’s empowerment, with repeated applause echoing through the auditorium.
Strong Ensemble Performance
The production featured a large ensemble cast portraying historical and fictional characters, including Begum Hazrat Mahal, British officers, villagers and members of Uda Devi’s community. Vaibhavi Shukla’s portrayal of Uda Devi received particular appreciation for capturing the courage and determination of the legendary freedom fighter.
The play was further enhanced by evocative music, choreography, costumes, lighting and sound design, creating an immersive theatrical experience. Background vocals, traditional compositions and carefully crafted stage effects added emotional depth to the narrative.
Alongside the theatre presentation, visitors also viewed a photography exhibition curated under the guidance of photographer Rakesh Sinha. The exhibition featured artistic images ranging from classical dance and architecture to equestrian subjects, nature studies and scenes from the academy campus.
According to Acting Director Saurabh Saxena, the two-day closing समारोह successfully showcased the creative achievements of workshop participants. Certificates were also distributed to participants in recognition of their dedication and artistic progress during the summer training programme.
The event underscored the academy’s commitment to nurturing young talent while preserving and promoting India’s diverse artistic traditions through meaningful cultural education and performance opportunities.
