Jaipur’s renowned Jawahar Kala Kendra is set to host the 27th edition of the Lok Rang Festival, an 11-day celebration of India’s rich and diverse folk culture, from October 18 to 28. The festival will bring together a confluence of traditional art, dance, music, and handicrafts from across the country. This year, over 4,000 artists from 24 states will participate, making it one of the largest folk festivals in the nation. With the introduction of new initiatives, the festival is poised to captivate audiences and showcase India’s cultural heritage on a grand scale.
A Showcase of Award-Winning Artisans at the National Handicraft Fair
One of the highlights of the festival is the National Handicraft Fair, which will be held daily at Shilpgram from 11 AM to 10 PM. The fair, organized in collaboration with the Rural Non-Farm Development Agency (RUDA), will feature over 100 stalls displaying the exquisite work of award-winning artisans. From intricate textiles to handmade jewelry and traditional crafts, visitors will have the opportunity to explore and purchase a wide range of handicrafts.
The fair will also tantalize the taste buds, offering famous cuisines from different states, allowing attendees to savor regional delicacies while enjoying the lively atmosphere. Traditional performances like Shehnai-Nagada, Bahurupiya, Nat (acrobat), and Puppet shows will add to the festive charm, keeping visitors entertained throughout the day.
A Triple Dose of Folk Dance and Music
Under the National Folk Dance Festival, the Lok Rang Festival will feature a spectacular array of folk dance performances, showcasing the vibrant cultures of Rajasthan, Punjab, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Assam, Tripura, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and many other states.
From 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM, the main stage at Shilpgram will come alive with dynamic folk dance performances, immersing the audience in the energy and traditions of India’s diverse regions. The entertainment continues in the evening at Madhyavarti, where folk dance, music, and instrumental performances will be held from 7:00 PM, followed by a soulful Folk Music Session at the main stage from 8:30 PM to 10:00 PM. This triple dose of entertainment promises to enthrall visitors with the beauty of India’s folk arts.
New and Unique Art Forms Unveiled
This year’s Lok Rang Festival is set to bring fresh excitement with the inclusion of new and unique art forms. Audiences can look forward to witnessing Rikhampada from Arunachal Pradesh, Sangren and Dhamel from Tripura, Bayer and Kamar from Chhattisgarh, Govardhan Leela from Bharatpur, and Domahi Kikan Dance from Assam. In a delightful addition, the festival will also feature the return of cherished folk forms like Cheraw from Mizoram, Gudum Baja from Madhya Pradesh, Talwar Ras and Kerba No Vesh from Gujarat after a long hiatus. These performances will offer a unique glimpse into lesser-known yet captivating traditions from across India.
“As I Saw Lok Rang” Campaign: Connecting with the Audience
To engage the audience and create lasting memories, Jawahar Kala Kendra will launch the “As I Saw Lok Rang” campaign. Visitors are invited to send photos, sketches, or artwork capturing their experiences at Lok Rang to the center’s email. Selected entries will be rewarded and displayed during the festival, allowing attendees to share their unique perspectives and creativity.
Lok Rang for Everyone: Embracing Traditional Attire and Folk Culture
In the spirit of inclusivity, visitors are encouraged to attend the festival in their traditional attire, adding to the immersive experience of folk culture. From children to adults, everyone will have the opportunity to dress in their regional clothes and celebrate their cultural heritage. The final day of the festival will culminate in a grand celebration, with prizes and quizzes related to folk arts, ensuring that attendees can actively participate in the festivities.
Summing Up
The 27th Lok Rang Festival promises to be a magnificent celebration of India’s folk traditions, offering a perfect blend of art, dance, music, and crafts. With over 4,000 artists showcasing their talents, award-winning artisans presenting their crafts, and new art forms being introduced, this year’s event is set to leave a lasting impression on all who attend. Lok Rang is not just a festival; it is a journey through India’s cultural tapestry, inviting everyone to revel in the vibrant legacy of folk arts.