Lucknow: The much-anticipated Kabir Festival returns this year with a vibrant lineup of film screenings, theater, music, art, and workshops, centered around the theme “Haman Hai Ishq Mastana”. This sixth edition of the festival, running from November 29 to December 1, promises to celebrate Kabir’s timeless philosophy with events spanning multiple venues.
Pre-Festival Highlights
In the lead-up to Diwali, a stunning dance drama curtain-raiser on October 19 set the tone for the festivities. The play “Haman Hai Ishq Mastana”, staged across colleges like Arts College, Avadh Girls College, and Mumtaz Degree College, has already captivated large audiences of students and art enthusiasts. Meanwhile, performances of the acclaimed play “Maa Mujhe Tagore Bana Do” continue to draw crowds, weaving cultural richness into the festival’s fabric.
Key Events of the Kabir Festival
Workshops
- Samjho Cinema:
Led by Dr. Avinash Kumar from IIM Kozhikode, this insightful workshop (November 29-December 1) explores themes like gender, nation, and history in cinema, providing a deeper understanding of film as a medium. - Pottery Workshop:
Titled “Maati Kahe Kumhar Se”, this terracotta clay workshop allows art lovers to get hands-on with pottery techniques.
Plays and Performances
- Maa Mujhe Tagore Bana Do (November 29, 4 PM):
Directed by Lucky Gupta, this much-loved play has already completed over 1500 shows. - Dosh (November 30):
Staged by the Padatik Theater Group from Kolkata, this thought-provoking play, directed by Vinay Sharma, explores the complexities of relationships and trust. - Jeeena Isi Ka Naam Hai (December 1):
Featuring Himani Shivpuri and Rajendra Gupta, this humorous yet profound play offers reflections on living a fulfilling life.
Musical Extravaganzas
- Qawwali Night (November 29):
A traditional Qawwali group will perform soul-stirring kalams inspired by Kabir’s philosophy. - Lucknow Drum Circle (November 30):
Tanmay Mukherjee will engage audiences in a communal drumming session. - Kuldeep Chauhan’s Team (December 1):
The Indian Idol fame artist will close the festival with a special music project.
Special Features
- Panel Discussion on Irrfan Khan:
On November 30, Sutapa Sikdar, actor Irrfan Khan’s wife, will join a discussion about his life, moderated by Saman Habib. - Flash Mob:
A lively flash mob will mark the festival’s inauguration. - Art and Wellness:
Interactive sessions by Aditi Arora (Sprouts Art) and Anuja Sharma (Anujas yogAbhyas) will focus on physical and mental well-being.
Closing Ceremony: Lighting the Sky
The festival will conclude with a mesmerizing candle-lighting event on December 1, symbolizing unity and hope.
Continuous Festivities
Throughout the three days, the festival will host:
- Youth Platform/Open Mic: Poetry, music, and performances by young talents.
- Film Screenings, Mushaira, and Comedy: Dedicated stages for diverse art forms.
- Food and Alumni Meets: Opportunities to reconnect over delicious snacks and chai.
A Celebration of Humanity and Friendship
Festival organizers Sangita Jaiswal and Veena Rana emphasized that the Kabir Festival’s USP lies in the quality of its plays and programs. They encouraged everyone to participate in this three-day celebration with their loved ones, reiterating the festival’s mission to promote art, culture, and friendship.
