Artistes showcased captivating performances on the inaugural day of SCZCC’s 31st Orange City Craft Fair and Folk Dance Festival on Friday. The much-awaited annual event featured spellbinding folk dance performances. The ten-day extravaganza was inaugurated by Union Minister for Road Transport, Nitin Gadkari.
The audience was captivated by mesmerizing performances, including Gotipua from Odisha (Arata Bandhu Barik group), Kalbelia from Rajasthan (Jawaharnath group), Hojagiri from Tripura (Debashish Reang group), Mayur Charkula from Uttar Pradesh (Krishna Gaud group), Bhangra from Punjab (Amardhir Singh group), and Maskarat from Puducherry (Gunaseelan group).
Earlier, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari emphasized that handicrafts and folk art represent the essence of India’s rich culture, showcasing the creativity and dedication of the nation’s artisans. He praised the festival for its unwavering efforts to promote handloom, handicrafts, and folk traditions. Gadkari commended the artisans and performers and encouraged citizens to actively participate in this vibrant celebration of art and culture.
SCZCC Director Astha Karlekar highlighted the festival’s golden legacy, emphasizing its role in preserving and promoting India’s rich cultural heritage. The event began with the traditional lamp-lighting ceremony. Assistant Director (Programmes) Deepak Kulkarni, Administrative Officer Deepak Patil, and Programme Assistant Ganpatlal Prajapati were also present.
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari felicitated the heads of the performing troupes during the event. The fair features an extensive display of handlooms, handicrafts, artworks, and woodcrafts, celebrating the nation’s artistic diversity.