Lucknow: Sahara Ganj, located at the heart of the city, is set to host a grand “Kumbh Vibes” Weekend Festival, which promises a unique cultural celebration over three weekends. The first event, “Makar Sankranti and Lohri Special,” will take place on Saturday, January 11. The second weekend on January 18 will feature the “Kumbh Special Tridhara” program, and the final weekend on January 25 will celebrate Republic Day Eve with a “Veeron Ko Naman” event.
To add an authentic touch, a giant “Kumbh Selfie Point” with a large Kalash (pot) will be set up at the event site. These events will run from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM and participation will be free of charge, inviting everyone to join in the festivities.
Highlights of the First Weekend Event (January 11, 2025)
- Mahakumbh GK Quiz: Attendees will have the chance to win prizes by answering simple questions related to the Kumbh Mela, such as When will the 2025 Prayagraj Kumbh Mela begin? or How often is the Mahakumbh held? Winners will be awarded by Youth Skill Volcano.
- Mahakumbh Exhibition: A special exhibition on Mahakumbh will showcase historical photographs and artifacts, giving visitors insight into the rich history of this spiritual gathering.
- Painting Workshop: A creative painting workshop will be organized, encouraging participants to express their artistic skills.
- Kite Making Contest: Participants will be challenged to decorate kites (even if they don’t fly), with prizes awarded for the best decorative designs using foam flowers, stickers, and other materials.
- Punjabi Traditional Fashion Parade: A unique fashion parade will feature participants walking the ramp in traditional Punjabi attire, accompanied by a lively performance of Gidda, Bhangra, and Punjabi Dhol by a professional group.
- Lohri Celebration: An artificial bonfire will be set up for a traditional Lohri celebration, complete with Gajak, Rewari, Murmura, Peanut, Jaggery, and Popcorn for attendees to enjoy.
Second Weekend Event (January 18, 2025)
- Kumbh Special Tridhara Program: The second weekend will also feature the Mahakumbh GK Quiz, with questions like Which serpent was used during the churning of the ocean in the Mahakumbh?
- Kalash Decoration Contest: Participants will compete in a creative Kalash decoration competition using acrylic paints, glass, threads, etc. Winners will be awarded by Youth Skill Volcano.
- Kathak Performances: The evening will feature performances by renowned Kathak Gurus, including Dr. Kumkum Dhar (Birju Maharaj Kathak Institute), Dr. Purnima Pandey (former chairperson, UP Sangeet Natak Academy), and popular Kathak artists from Lucknow.
- Kathak Workshop: A Kathak workshop, hosted by senior gurus such as Shashwati Sen, Aseem Bandhu Bhattacharya, and Jai Krishna Maharaj, will provide an excellent opportunity for participants to learn the nuances of Kathak.
Final Weekend Event (January 25, 2025)
- Veeron Ko Naman Program: On the eve of Republic Day, Sahara Gang will honor the valor of India’s heroes through a special program.
- Slogan Making Competition: Participants will write slogans on topics such as Clean India, Developed India, Republic Day, and the Tricolor, with winners receiving awards.
- Rangoli Competition: A Rangoli contest based on patriotism will also take place, with prizes for the best designs.
- Recognition of Eminent Personalities: Several notable personalities will be honored during this event.
- Patriotic Musical Performances: The popular band Friendship Band will perform patriotic songs to add to the celebratory mood.
Sahara Ganj’s “Kumbh Vibes” Weekend Festival promises to be a vibrant celebration of culture, tradition, and patriotism, offering something for everyone in Lucknow. The event will feature a variety of activities that bring together local traditions, artistic performances, and a sense of community spirit.
The press conference to announce the event was attended by Sunil Banka, Head of Sahara Ganj, along with several distinguished guests.
