Lucknow: The month-long Summer Workshop at Bhatkhande Sanskriti University concluded with a spectacular showcase of music, dance, and artistic talent, as participants delivered captivating performances that reflected the skills and creativity they had developed during the training programme. The closing-day presentations enthralled the audience and highlighted the transformative role of arts education in nurturing young talent.
The event began with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by chief guest Yugantar Sindoor, noted classical and light music vocalist, along with former University Registrar Dr. Srishti Dhawan, senior IPS officer Kirit Rathod, Head of the Percussion Department Dr. Manoj Kumar Mishra, Head of the Dance Department Gyanendra Datt Bajpai, and Assistant Professor of Dance Manjula Pant.
The programme featured a rich and diverse lineup of performances. Under the guidance of Vaishnavi Mishra, students opened the event with a Bharatanatyam presentation that included Pushpanjali, Sanskrit shlokas, and a graceful lamp dance, demonstrating both technical skill and expressive artistry.
A vibrant Awadhi folk dance choreographed by Mohit Kapoor on the popular composition “Ayodhya Ke Kanak Bhavan Mein” brought the colours and traditions of regional culture to the stage, earning enthusiastic appreciation from the audience.
One of the major highlights was the Kathak performance presented under the guidance of veteran guru Pandit Ram Mohan Maharaj. Beginning with “Om Namah Shivaya,” the recital featured intricate thaat, tukdas, and tihais, culminating in a compelling interpretation of the thumri “Dagar Chalat Dekho Shyam.”
In the classical vocal segment, students trained by Prakhar Pandey presented the Jaunpuri raga composition “Payal Ki Jhankar,” impressing listeners with their command over melody and expression. Instrumental music also drew admiration, with a sitar recital directed by Manoj Kumar showcasing a well-structured rendition of Raag Kafi in medium tempo.
The light music section featured a self-composed piece by Naman Singh, “Jab Hriday Samarpit Hota Hai,” which resonated strongly with the audience. In the ghazal segment, students trained by Anjali Patel presented Bashir Badr’s celebrated ghazal “Kahin Chand Rahon Mein Kho Gaya,” delivering an emotionally rich performance.
Speaking on the occasion, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Mandavi Singh said that summer workshops provide an effective platform for holistic development, confidence building, and creative expression among students. She reiterated the university’s commitment to preserving and promoting India’s rich classical and folk art traditions while enabling young artists to represent Indian culture on global platforms. She also praised the dedication of instructors and the discipline and hard work displayed by participants throughout the workshop.
Registrar S. P. Singh noted that such initiatives help cultivate discipline, punctuality, teamwork, and commitment among students. He emphasized the university’s efforts to provide not only academic knowledge but also meaningful practical and cultural experiences that contribute to overall personality development.
A special certificate distribution ceremony was held during the closing event, with all participants being honoured for their active involvement and outstanding performances. The atmosphere was marked by pride, enthusiasm, and a sense of accomplishment among students and their families.
The successful programme was coordinated by Dr. Manoj Kumar Mishra and Dr. Gyanendra Datt Bajpai, while the event was compered by guest faculty member Dr. Kritika Tripathi from the Department of Vocal Music.
The workshop concluded with congratulations to all participants and best wishes for their future artistic journeys, bringing to a close a month of intensive learning, creativity, and cultural celebration at the university.
