ARA CULTURAL HERITAGE AND GOLDEN HISTORY OF MUSICAL PURSUIT

ARA CULTURAL HERITAGE AND GOLDEN HISTORY OF MUSICAL PURSUIT

12-MAY-ENG 10

RAJIV NAYAN AGRAWAL

ARA--------------------------The historic land of Ara, Bihar, holds a distinct identity as a prominent hub for classical music. Over the passage of time, the diverse musical activities hosted here—coupled with the local populace's unwavering dedication to the arts—have elevated the city of Ara to significant cultural heights. The role played by Ara’s musical custodians in preserving this glorious tradition has been pivotal; it is they who ensured that the flame of this artistic legacy never flickered out.

These cherished memories were rekindled during a soulful musical evening recently held in Ara. The event was dedicated to the sacred memory of the late Bakshi Awadhesh Kumar Srivastava, who made invaluable contributions toward nurturing Ara’s musical traditions. It is noteworthy that the late Bakshi *Ji* successfully organized Ara’s renowned *Shri Krishna Janmotsav Sangeet Samaroh* (Music Festival celebrating Lord Krishna's birth) for nearly 35 years, thereby ensuring the continuous enrichment of the region's musical culture.

The program was inaugurated by the distinguished Tabla maestro, Dr. Lal Babu Nirala. In his address, Dr. Nirala lauded Ara’s musical heritage, observing that the city possesses a golden history of its own—a legacy that dedicated individuals like the late Awadhesh Kumar Srivastava have worked tirelessly to pass on to the new generation. On this occasion, Dr. Nirala delivered a solo Tabla performance that left the audience spellbound.

During the program, Guru Bakshi Vikas drew attention to a grave concern, noting that in contemporary times, a palpable scarcity of true connoisseurs of music is being felt in Ara. Expressing his apprehension, he remarked that the dwindling number of musical custodians is having a direct and adverse impact on the preservation and growth of classical music. This is a critical issue that demands serious contemplation from art enthusiasts to ensure that the vibrant stream of classical music continues to flow uninterrupted.

Amidst the sequence of cultural performances, vocalist Shreya Pandey captivated the entire gathering with the melodious resonance of her voice. They captivated the audience by performing ghazals such as *Niyat-e-Shauq Bhar Na Jaaye Kahin* and *Salona Sa Sajan Hai Aur Main Hoon*. Meanwhile, the young dancer Shivakshi brought to life the playful, loving banter between Radha and Krishna through her enchanting dance performance set to the tune of *Roko Na Dagar Mor Shyam*.

Furthering the traditions of classical dance, Dr. Twinkle Keshari and Smita Singh showcased their artistic prowess through the medium of Kathak. They commenced the program with an invocation to Goddess Durga and garnered resounding applause from the assembled crowd by presenting *Upaj*, *Thaath*, *Aamad*, and *Paran* in *Teen Taal*, followed by an expressive *Bhava Abhinaya* (emotive acting) based on a *bhajan* by Meera. Chandni and Mahi also proved their mettle by delivering impressive performances of *Raga*-based music.

The program was anchored by Aditya Srivastava, while the vote of thanks was delivered by Guru Bakshi Vikas. This musical evening in Arrah served not only as a heartfelt tribute to the late Bakshi Awadhesh Kumar Srivastava but also as an endeavor to rekindle the memory of the city's rich cultural heritage.