Bhubaneswar: A grand cultural extravaganza on the theme Bharat and Bharatiyata was organized by the Indian Council of Cultural Relations (ICCR) this evening as part of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas celebrations.
The event showcased India’s cultural richness and diversity through a series of mesmerizing performances by artists from across the country, reflecting the nation’s glorious civilization and its deep connections to the world.
The centerpiece of the programme was a performance set on a giant ship, symbolizing the struggles and resilience of the Girmitiyas in foreign lands. Their hardships and triumphs were depicted through the dynamic movements of Chhau and contemporary dance. A clock projected onto the ship represented the cycle of time, adding a symbolic touch to the narrative.
The presentation opened with a Classical Kuchipudi dance depicting the Sindhu-Saraswati civilization, maritime trade, and India’s cultural links with the world. This was further enriched with glimpses of the Ramayana and Buddha’s spiritual journey, symbolizing India’s ancient wisdom and its enduring message of universal peace and harmony.
The programme seamlessly blended classical Tarana music with iconic dance forms such as Bharatanatyam, Odissi, Kathak, Manipuri, Kathakali, and Kuchipudi. Dancers adorned in exquisite costumes captivated the audience, bringing to life India’s vibrant traditions. The performance also paid homage to India’s maritime history, with depictions of merchants and traders from the Harappan era sailing to distant lands—a legacy that continues to modern times.
Adding to the splendor were folk dances from Gujarat, Rajasthan, Kashmir, Madhya Pradesh, Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh, and Punjab, which showcased the country’s regional diversity.
The event concluded with a breathtaking performance by 110 dancers holding earthen diyas, set to Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore’s iconic poem Where the Mind is Without Fear. The finale celebrated a progressive, modern India rooted in the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (The World is One Family), praying for peace, prosperity, and happiness—Sukh, Samriddhi, and Shanti.
A visually stunning LED backdrop and a narrative by Maitreyee Pahari enhanced the storytelling, leaving the audience inspired by the grandeur and depth of India’s cultural legacy.
