Lucknow: The ongoing Uttarakhand Mahotsav at Pt. Govind Ballabh Pant Mountain Cultural Upvan, Birbal Sahni Marg, Lucknow, has become a vibrant hub of cultural celebration and economic activity. Shopkeepers are jubilant with the surge in visitors, as their stalls showcasing items like Bal Mithai, mountain pulses, vegetables, woolen clothes, and other local specialties witness record-breaking sales. The immense popularity has led many vendors to restock repeatedly, underscoring the festival’s massive appeal.
A Holiday Crowd Adds Festive Spirit
The seventh day of the festival coincided with the Kartik Purnima and Guru Nanak Prakash Parv holiday, attracting visitors from early morning. By evening, the venue was teeming with an enthusiastic crowd. Under the creative direction of Secretary Rajesh Bisht, the stalls were adorned with kites in a rainbow theme, creating a lively and colorful atmosphere.
Grand Inauguration of the Evening Festivities
The evening festivities were inaugurated by Dr. Balkar Singh, IAS, Commissioner of Housing and Development, Lucknow, alongside D.N. Pandey and Ajay Kumar from Life Insurance Corporation of India. The dignitaries were welcomed with bouquets, shawls, and mementos by the Maha Parishad officials, marking the event’s formal commencement with a lamp-lighting ceremony.
Cultural Competitions at Their Peak
The cultural competitions, including Naachega Bharat and Dance Uttarakhand Dance, have reached a crescendo. Teams are delivering stellar performances reminiscent of professional artists, captivating the audience with their talent. Puran Singh Jeena, competition in-charge, highlighted the enthusiastic participation of the youth. These competitions are expertly hosted by Sundar Singh Bisht, who keeps the audience engaged throughout.
Simultaneously, Jhora teams from Lucknow continue to mesmerize with their traditional attire and dances, showcasing Uttarakhand’s rich heritage.
Health Services and Craft Stalls Enrich the Experience
Adding to the festival’s charm, KK Hospital offers free medical check-ups and medicines, providing essential services to visitors. Craftsmanship from Kumaon is on full display, with artisans demonstrating the making of iron utensils like tawas and kadhais, renowned for enhancing the taste of food. Stalls from Bhadohi offer exquisite carpets, rugs, and mats, attracting significant attention.
Spotlight on Performances and Competitions
The stage is a melting pot of talent, featuring a wide array of artistic expressions:
- Solo Dance Competition: Twenty participants showcased their skills, with Jinisha, Tvariti, and Navika Porwal bagging the top three positions.
- Lemon Race: Among 15 participants, Sakshi, Rajni, and Vandana emerged victorious. The event was smoothly conducted under the supervision of Pushpa Vaishnav and her team.
Enthralling Evening Performances
From 4 PM, a series of breathtaking performances captivated the audience:
- Workout Dance by Manas Yoga Center, featuring dynamic performers like Rajni, Meenu, and Pallavi Prajapati, emphasized fitness and empowerment through dance.
- Folk Dances and Singing: Rohini and her team enthralled the audience with Garhwali songs, while Mandakini Bahuguna’s group added a devotional touch with Krishna-themed folk dances.
- Bharatanatyam and Shri Ram Stuti: Tripti Gupta’s elegant performance left a lasting impression.
The evening continued with electrifying rounds of Jhora competitions led by teams like Shivani Vihar Kalyanpur and Dev Bhoomi Jan Sarokar Cultural Committee. The Nachega Bharat and Dance Uttarakhand Dance rounds showcased high-energy performances by groups like Heart and Soul Academy and Ramlila Committee Telibagh.
Musical Extravaganza
The star performer, Rakesh Khanwal, brought the crowd to its feet with his soulful renditions of popular Kumaoni songs like Cream Paudra and Himuli Thokdare Ki Cheli Himuli. His vibrant energy resonated with the audience, adding a special touch to the evening.
Collective Effort Behind Success
The Maha Parishad team, led by convener Diwan Singh Adhikari and general secretary Bharat Singh Bisht, has been instrumental in the festival’s success. Their meticulous planning and dedication are evident in the seamless execution of events.
A Cultural Spectacle to Remember
The Uttarakhand Mahotsav is not just a festival but a vibrant celebration of culture, art, and community. With its diverse offerings, from free health services to mesmerizing performances and thriving commerce, it has become a testament to the rich heritage and spirit of Uttarakhand. The success of this festival is a shining example of collective efforts and cultural pride, leaving visitors with memories to cherish and an eagerness for the next edition.
