Lok Nrutya Bharat Bharati: A spectacular celebration of India’s folk dance in Gadchiroli

Nagpur: The ‘Lok Nrutya Bharat Bharati' festival brought a mesmerising blend of folk dances from across India to Gadchiroli during the last three days. Organised by the South Central Zone Cultural Centre (SCZCC), Nagpur, in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, govt of India, and the govt of Maharashtra, this three-day extravaganza at Vidya Bharati Girls High School became a confluence of heritage and rhythm. The festival concluded on March 3.
Inaugurated with great enthusiasm, the festival was graced by Dr Rajabhau Munghate, founder of Vidya Bharati Girls High School and Junior College. Former MLA Dr Namdev Usendi, Assistant Commissioner of Social Welfare Dr Sachin Madavi, Deepak Kulkarni, Assistant Director of SCZCC, and Sandeep Shende, Assistant Director of the Directorate of Cultural Affairs, were among the distinguished guests who witnessed this grand artistic celebration.
The festival saw an explosion of colour and rhythm as a variety of folk dances took centre stage. Maharashtra's spirited Lavani and Koli dance set the tone with their fast-paced footwork and expressive storytelling. From Madhya Pradesh, the graceful Badhaai and Norata added an element of tradition and festivity, while Rajasthan's Kalbeliya, Bhawai, and Chari dances wove tales of nomadic artistry. The soulful Ghoomar and Phaag dance from Haryana, the vibrant Joshpurna Siddhi Dhamal of Gujarat, and the powerful rhythms of Odisha's Sambalpuri and Dalkhai dances enthralled the audience. Chhattisgarh's indigenous Karma dance, a tribute to nature and life, added a sacred essence to the performances.
This grand celebration of folk artistry was orchestrated under the guidance of Additional Chief Secretary, Department of Cultural Affairs, Vikas Kharge, with meticulous planning by Vibhishan Chavare, Director of Cultural Affairs, and Astha Karlekar, Director of SCZCC.