GUWAHATI, Jan 18? The fourth ?Navabarsha Mahotsav? (New Year Festival) organised by the Srimanta Sankaradev Kalashetra Samaj at the Kalakshetra concluded on January 17, with a tribute-paying ceremony to Rupkonwar Jyotiprasad Agarwala on his 52nd death anniversary, being celebrated as Silpi Divas all over the State.A major highlight of the festival were the cultural evenings on the first and the second day featuring luminaries from the States? musical world who mesmerised the audience with some evergreen melodies of yesteryears. Conducted by renowned music director Ramen Baruah, a host of veteran as well as up-and-coming singers participated in the programme.
The third and the fifth day?s programmes included a colourful performance of traditional folk dances and songs of various ethnic tribes of the State like the Tiwas, Misings, Karbis, Bodos, Singphos, Deuris, etc. People belonging to other parts of the country now residing in the State also put up an enthralling show of song and dance.
The Satriya Sanskriti Utsav, part of the new year festival was another attraction which was held from January 7 to 9. A number of artistes from several satras presented programmes of dance, song and ankiya drama. This was followed by a meet on classical dances and songs where noted exponents of Kathak, Odissi, Bharat Natyam, etc. came up with some spirited performances. Violin recital and classical vocals were also part of the event.
Meanwhile, the Kalakshetra Samaj is going to organise a Karnataka Utsav from February 6 to 9 in association with the Karnataka Sangeet Nritrya Academy. Smt Ranee Satish, the Cultural Affairs Minister of Karnataka will formally inaugurate the programme.