India is one of the most musical and musically diverse countries in the world. Each region has its own distinct and rich legacy of music traditions. The Indian art (classical) music is deeply rooted in these regional folk melodies and rhythms, which are vibrant and living among the rural masses of India.
Organised during the Navratri-Puja festival, which is typically identified with the eastern region of India, this event will showcase the vibrant and colourful music and dance traditions of the north-eastern states of Bengal and Assam.
The evening will open with Banglar Utsav, a musical presentation by ‘Dohar’, a group of cultural activists and performers based in Kolkata. This presentation including songs, rhymes, dance and theatre is based on the theme of ‘seasons’. From the boat races in the rainy season of Ashadh to the Durgapuja in the month of Sharat, from Nabanna, the festival of harvesting, to the colourful Dol or Holi as the winter makes way for spring; this presentation offers a glimpse of the rustic milieu as influenced by the spectrum of seasons.
The second half of the evening will be a presentation of Bihu, a folk dance tradition associated with the Assamese festival, also known as Bihu, which is celebrated thrice in a year during different seasons. This joyous dance is performed by both young men and women, and is characterised by brisk dance steps, rapid hand movement, and a rhythmic swaying of the hips representing youthful passion and vitality. The cheerful spirit is also reflected through the accompanying musical instruments and colourful costumes.
Alengi Satra Kala Kristi Krendra, a troop of 25 members from Jorhat, will present the splendour of Rongoli (also known as Bohag) Bihu through several dance items accompanied by traditional drums.
