Exploring cultural heritage

The growth story of a buoyant Bengal, aided by the power of traditional knowledge, indigenous skills and creative genius wedded to a resurgent spirit of positivity and aspiration, has been the highlight of West Bengal Day which was celebrated at the India International Trade Fair-2015, focusing on the theme of “Make in India”. The State also exhibits Bengal’s great artistic and cultural heritage, its superb handicrafts and handloom products, its prowess in Information Technology, Power Generation, Industry, Agriculture, Education, Tourism and its present achievements and future opportunities. A pride of place has been reserved for the “Biswa Bangla” initiative, through which all aspects of Bengal’s crafts, culture and creativity will be projected under a single umbrella organization to build a “brand Bengal” in the international market. The folk artistes took an active role to propagate different unique schemes such as Kanyasree, Jubasree, Sikshasree through their performances. This project has brought tremendous enthusiasm among the folk artistes of Bengal. 

The evening started with Dhak – Dhol which is an age-old folk musical instruments of Bengal with the Performance by Lalit Badyakar and his troupe,  Murshidabad. It was followed by Baul, Kartick Das Baul and his troupe, Birbhum popularly known as the wandering minstrels are a group of singers coming both from Hindu and Muslim communities. Ignoring all kinds of religious and ritualistic autocracy, social stigma and caste barriers, Bauls find out their 'Mon Amie' (my love) within simplicity. Music of Baul was main tool to attain his divine grace in the evening. Dances like Rava dance, Raibenshe dance and Chou Dance were presented. The dances were presented with songs and the dancers adorned colourful costumes. The dance forms are marked by the unique gorgeous props and colourful attire used by the dancers. These globally acclaimed dance form was highly appreciated by the viewers.