Ratnavali Youth Sang Festival Illuminates Panipat with Haryanvi Folk Traditions
The vibrant sounds of dholak beats and soulful sang performances took center stage at the 11th Ratnavali Youth Sang Festival, held at Arya PG College in Panipat. This grand cultural event, inaugurated on Thursday, brought together artists, officials, and students to celebrate Haryana's rich folk heritage in a spectacular display of music and dance.
Inauguration and Chief Guest Highlights
The festival commenced with a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony, symbolizing the illumination of cultural values. The OP Shingala Auditorium resonated with the energetic rhythms of the dholak, instantly immersing attendees in the authentic colors of Haryanvi traditions. Social activist Harpal Dhanda graced the occasion as the chief guest, delivering an inspiring address to the youth.
"Sang is the identity of our soil, embedded in the stories of our culture and bravery," Dhanda emphasized. He praised Arya College for its commendable efforts in connecting modern youth to their cultural roots, ensuring that these traditions thrive in contemporary times.
Prem Dehati's Spiritual Performance and Message
Adding grandeur to the event, renowned folk singer and President's Award winner Prem Dehati attended as a special guest. Known for his contributions to Bollywood and Haryanvi cinema, Dehati shared profound insights into the art of singing.
"Singing is not just a performance, but a spiritual practice," he stated. Dehati urged the younger generation to actively preserve this art form, warning that future generations must not forget the glorious heritage of Haryana. His performance of several raginis captivated the audience, showcasing the depth and emotion of folk music.
Student Performances and Cultural Showcases
The first day of the festival featured a live performance by the team from RKSD College in Kaithal, who presented the poignant song "Pingala-Bhartrihari." This narrative depicted the story of King Bhartrihari's renunciation of the throne and Queen Pingala's disillusionment, brought to life through expressive dance and music.
- Artistes danced skillfully on wooden stools, adding a unique visual element to the performance.
- A jugalbandi (duet) between the sarangi and dholak enthralled spectators, highlighting the intricate harmonies of Haryanvi folk instruments.
- Notably, most performers were female students, emphasizing the growing role of women in cultural preservation.
Organizers' Vision and Community Participation
Professor Jagdish Gupta, who led the college's production team, expressed pride in Arya College's role as a custodian of cultural values. "This 11th edition of the Ratnavali Youth Sang Festival is a testament to our unwavering love and dedication to folk art," he said. Gupta aims for students to become brand ambassadors of their culture, spreading awareness and appreciation beyond the campus.
The event was moderated by Dr. Dinesh Gahlayan, with attendance from:
- Members of the college's cultural committee
- Department heads from various communities
- Students and prominent city figures
Second Day Highlights and Future Prospects
On Friday, the festival continued with a performance by a team from SD College in Panipat, featuring a song from the epic tale of Nala Damayanti. Distinguished guests included Advocate Dharampal Kharb, Dr. Ramniwas (in-charge of cultural programmes), Dr. Anuradha Singh, Dr. Geetanjali Sahni, Dr. Vijay Singh, Dr. Neelu Khalsa, Professor Akram Khan, and Ashok Atri.
The Ratnavali Youth Sang Festival not only celebrates Haryana's folk traditions but also fosters a sense of community and cultural pride among participants. By engaging youth through such initiatives, Arya College ensures that these artistic legacies are passed down to future generations, keeping the spirit of Haryanvi heritage alive and vibrant.
