IGNCA’s 39th Foundation Day showcases rich confluence of classical, folk traditions
STATE TIMES NEWS
NEW DELHI: The 39th Foundation Day celebrations of the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) concluded on a vibrant note, presenting a remarkable blend of classical and folk traditions over three days from March 19 to 21.
The event opened with distinguished classical performances by Sonal Mansingh and Padma Subrahmanyam. Dr. Mansingh’s presentation “Natya Katha – Devi” captivated audiences with its powerful expression and deep cultural roots. On the second day, Dr. Subrahmanyam’s dance-drama based on the Bhagavad Gita offered a profound artistic experience, blending philosophy, music, and movement. At 83, her nearly two-hour uninterrupted performance stood out for its vitality and expressive depth.
The concluding day celebrated India’s diverse folk traditions. The programme began with the Bagurumba dance of Assam by Swagata Sarma and her group, followed by the lively Nati dance of Himachal Pradesh presented by Prem Chand Bounali and troupe. The energy continued with the Talwar Raas of Gujarat performed by Nilesh Parmar and his team.
A highlight of the evening was the display of Kerala’s ancient martial art Kalaripayattu by Krishnadas Gurukkal and the Vallabhatta Kalari group, leaving the audience enthralled. The musical segment featured Padma Shri awardee Bheru Singh Chouhan, who presented devotional compositions based on Kabir’s verses, followed by Sufi renditions by Mamta Joshi, creating a spiritually immersive atmosphere.
Alongside performances, exhibitions such as Kaladrishti: A Decade of Vision, Aakhyan: Breathing Hides – The Soul of Andhra Puppetry, and the Thewa Exhibition attracted significant attention, showcasing India’s artistic diversity.
The three-day celebration emerged as a harmonious synthesis of classical depth and folk vibrancy. While classical performances highlighted philosophical richness, folk traditions reflected the joy and diversity of everyday life. The event reaffirmed IGNCA’s commitment to preserving and promoting India’s cultural heritage, offering an enriching experience to art lovers and audiences alike.
