Lucknow: The ongoing Uttarakhand Mahotsav at the Bharat Ratna Pt. Govind Ballabh Pant Mountain Cultural Garden, located along the scenic banks of the Gomti River in Lucknow, is a celebration of rich traditions, folk arts, and the cultural heritage of Uttarakhand. Coordinated by Hem Singh, the festival showcases the state’s vibrant customs, with a stunning stage designed to depict the Kumbh Mela, drawing audiences into a whirlwind of traditional performances, mouth-watering food, and local craftsmanship.
A Mesmerizing Blend of Folk Arts and Traditions
From the first moment you step onto the festival grounds, it’s impossible not to be captivated by the sensory experience. The cool evening breeze, coupled with the aroma of delectable dishes wafting through the air, creates an atmosphere of festivity that pulls visitors into the heart of the event. The site is filled with a variety of programs running simultaneously, on the beautifully constructed stage, adding to the festive vibe.
Visitors also enjoy browsing through a variety of stalls, where they can shop for everything from woolen clothes to traditional Uttarakhandi caps, Himachali headwear, and khadi apparel. Local artisans showcase their talent with beautiful handcrafted jewellery, including the famous Galoband, Nath, Pauji, Maang Tikka, Mangal Sutra, and Aipan. Special attractions also include a papad bhaandar and a host of Uttarakhandi delicacies that delight the taste buds.
Health and Wellness on Offer
Among the many offerings, the festival site also features a free medical checkup and medicine distribution stall, courtesy of KK Hospital. Visitors can get health advice and checkups while enjoying the cultural activities. Additionally, Kumaon Jewellers offers a wide selection of traditional and modern jewelry designs, drawing shoppers who want a piece of Uttarakhand’s heritage.
Inauguration and Special Guests
On the third day of the festival, the evening began with a traditional lamp lighting ceremony conducted by the Chief Guest, Major General Sharad Bikram Singh, Managing Director of Uttar Pradesh Ex-Servicemen Welfare Corporation Limited. Colonel Satendra Singh Negi, the special guest, also graced the occasion. The officials of the Uttarakhand Mahotsav warmly welcomed the distinguished guests, presenting them with bouquets, angavastras, and symbolic insignias. Additionally, ex-servicemen were honored for their service and contributions to the nation.
Harish Chandra Pant, President of the Uttarakhand Maha Parishad, expressed gratitude to sponsors, including the State Bank of India, Life Insurance Corporation of India, and SBI Life, whose generous support made the event a grand success.
Cultural Highlights: Dance, Poetry, and Folk Art
The cultural programming on the third day captivated the audience, starting with a mesmerizing solo dance performance by special girl Riddham Sarkar. Her performance won her the first prize in the dance competition, held under the guidance of Pushpa Vaishnav, Sunita Kanwal, Asha Banola, and Vidya Singh.
One of the most anticipated performances at the festival is the Chholiya dance, a traditional war dance originating from Garhwal. Performed daily by the Udhanchal Kala Kendra Almora artists from the Culture Department, Dehradun, this energetic and dramatic dance, accompanied by traditional instruments like Dhol, Damau, Ransingh, and Trumpet, has mesmerized the audience with its display of war and victory. The performers, including K.S. Chufal, Mahesh Rautla, Madan Singh, and others, have brought this folk tradition to life, adding to the festival’s charm.
Dance Competitions and Vibrant Folk Performances
In a highlight of the day’s festivities, the Naachega Bharat dance competition saw four teams compete, including groups from Kumaonchal Nagar, Nritya Dance Group, Jan Kalyan Samiti, and Dr. Shreya Sangeet Sansthan. The competition was fierce, but all groups brought their unique flair to the stage, delighting the audience with their captivating performances.
Meanwhile, the Dance Uttarakhand Dance, Season 3 competition saw teams such as Arts and Cultural Group, Pant Dance Event Company, Kutumb Group, and Nayi Dishayen Nainital vying for the top spots. Each team displayed exceptional talent and enthusiasm, vying to make it to the next round and bring their cultural pride to the forefront.
The folk art of Jhora was another major attraction, with five teams presenting traditional Jhora dances, including performances from Seemantnagar, Vasundharapuram, Khargapur, Jan Sarokar Cultural Committee, and Vikas Nagar. The dancers, clad in traditional costumes, showcased the regional folk traditions, connecting the audience to the rural heart of Uttarakhand.
The day’s performances also included a special presentation by guest artists from Jhansi, who performed the Bundeli Rai dance, supported by the Uttar Pradesh Culture Department. The dance tells the story of kings and queens celebrating their victories, with women dancing in fields, celebrating the return of their heroes.
A Festival of Unity and Heritage
With its rich tapestry of art, culture, cuisine, and traditions, the Uttarakhand Mahotsav at the Gomti Riverfront has proven to be a spectacular success. Visitors continue to flock to the festival, immersing themselves in the heritage of Uttarakhand while enjoying the lively atmosphere of the event. Through this festival, the diverse cultural traditions of India are brought to the forefront, showcasing the importance of unity and the beauty of our shared heritage.
As the festival continues, the spirit of celebration remains strong, and the festival promises even more exciting performances and cultural displays.
