Traditional music and dance festivals showcase India’s abundant artistic talent while honouring culture and rituals. There exists a musical celebration unlike any other: Sahaj Parav – The Root Music Festival. The sixth iteration of Sahaj Parav – The Root Music Festival will take place in Kolkata’s Indian Museum on February 16 and 17.
Sahaj Parav In Kolkata’s Indian Museum
The sixth iteration of this cultural festival, which was put on hold for two years due to the global pandemic, promises to be a colourful celebration of music, with various performances by well-known musicians and soulful tunes. The festival brings together a variety of performing arts, such as folk and ethnic. It wants to promote cultural unity and protect India’s rich legacy in addition to providing entertainment.
The festival, which was started in 2014 by the musical group Dohar and Lopamudra Productions—which is headed by the well-known vocalist Lopamudra Mitra—aims to become a centre for all forms of folk and ethnic art. This non-profit festival provides a forum for talks, seminars, and artist support. Each year, it gives about 100 folk performers from different parts of Bangladesh and India a chance to play. Among the oldest museums in the world is the Indian Museum, which is situated in Kolkata.
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What To Look Forward To?
This year’s festivities include Gotipowa from Odisha, Godhuli, traditional folk renditions from Maharashtra, Bengali folk presentation, Rajasthan folklore, Himalayan folk and modern music, and Geet Gobindo. There will be an artisanal market at the festival in addition to the performances. Musicians and cultural aficionados are excited about the festival.
There will be a Gotipowa dance performance and a felicitation and Geetgovindam performance by Anathbondhu Ghosh on Friday, February 16. And Goudhali, the Maharashtra folk classic performed by Haridas Sindhe. Performances on Saturday, February 17th feature folk songs by Rajasthani ensemble Bundu Khan and his group, as well as Chari, Kalbeliya, and Kachi Ghodi dance. Later in the day, Bipul Chhetri and the travelling band will perform Himalayan folk music with a modern twist.
Beyond its musical offerings, Sahaj Parav embraces a holistic approach to cultural celebration. So, are you attending?
Where: Indian Museum, Kolkata
When: February 16-17, 2024
Check here for tickets