SARAS Aajeevika Mela in Gurgaon Transforms into Cultural Hub After Dark
The SARAS Aajeevika Mela, currently underway at Leisure Valley Park in Gurgaon, has undergone a remarkable transformation. What began as a traditional marketplace has blossomed into a multifaceted cultural destination that comes alive as the sun sets. By night, the venue evolves into a cultural pit stop where the city's rhythm slows, allowing residents to pause, listen, applaud, and even join in spontaneous dances.
Assam's Bihu Dance Brings Spring Celebrations to the Stage
On February 19, the mela stage welcomed the vibrant Bihu dance from Assam. This traditional performance, known for its infectious rhythm and celebratory spirit, marks both the Assamese New Year and the arrival of spring. Audiences were treated to a visual spectacle featuring:
- Colorful mekhela chadors worn by dancers
- High-energy group formations
- The unmistakable, driving beat of the dhol echoing throughout the park
Alongside this folk exuberance, the classical Sattriya dance provided a quieter, devotional counterpoint, showcasing the graceful, spiritual dimensions of Assamese culture.
Evening Performances Become Major After-Work Attraction
In recent days, the mela's cultural programming has emerged as a significant after-work draw for Gurgaon residents. The series launched on Valentine's Day with a performance by singer Shibani Kashyap, who transformed the open grounds into an energetic sing-along zone. The atmosphere was so engaging that:
- Couples lingered well beyond the scheduled end time
- Families moved closer to the performance area
- The evening extended comfortably past its official closing
The following night featured Jeli Kayi Tamin, who captivated audiences with his unique dual-voice performance. His seamless transitions between tonal ranges prompted spectators to watch intently and raise their phones to capture the extraordinary vocal display.
Sufi Music Creates Contemplative Evenings
By February 16, the mood shifted toward a more immersive experience with a Sufi performance by Vusat Iqbal Khan. The classical arrangements and contemplative rhythms created a quieter, more reflective space that drew listeners into a state of peaceful engagement. Attendance in the seating area has shown steady growth with each passing evening, indicating increasing popularity.
Cultural Programming Rivals Marketplace Appeal
Visitors who initially arrive for shopping are now strategically timing their visits to coincide with evening performances. The cultural aspect has become equally compelling, with observable patterns including:
- Children mimicking dance steps near the aisles
- Groups of friends and families remaining seated late into the night
- A noticeable shift in visitor behavior toward performance-focused attendance
This evolution signals that the mela's cultural programming has become as significant a draw as its traditional marketplace offerings.
Upcoming Cultural Showcases Across Indian States
The cultural calendar continues to expand with upcoming performances representing diverse Indian traditions:
- Punjabi singer Karan Randhawa
- Performances by Jasmine Kaur
- Maharashtra's traditional showcase 'Gaurav Maharashtracha'
- An evening dedicated to Bharatanatyam and Tamil folk traditions
This diverse lineup promises to maintain the mela's momentum as a premier cultural destination in Gurgaon, blending regional artistry with community engagement in a unique urban setting.
