ART AND CULTURE TO FLOURISH THROUGH ‘WAH USTAD’

ART AND CULTURE TO FLOURISH THROUGH ‘WAH USTAD’

27-APRIL-ENG 2

RAJIV NAYAN AGRAWAL

PATNA--------------------------The auspicious inauguration of the 'Wah Ustad School of Performing Arts' took place at Tarapur House, located on Ashiana-AG Road in Patna. The institution was jointly inaugurated by lighting the ceremonial lamp by Dr. Jainendra Dost (Lecturer, Department of Education), renowned folk singer Sarita Saaz, and international Kathak dancer Rajiv Ranjan. Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Jainendra Dost remarked that art and culture form the very foundation of any nation; indeed, the progress of a nation is reflected in its culture. Similarly, Kathak dancer Rajiv Ranjan stated that music and art constitute the soul of society, adding that it is impossible to envision a developed society in the absence of art and culture. The atmosphere was truly enlivened by Roshan Kumar's captivating performance on the classical keyboard. Furthermore, Vidushi Bimla Devi enthralled the audience with *Thumri* and *Dadra* renditions, while young vocalist Shreya Pandey presented classical vocals. Govind Vallabh performed light music (*Sugam Sangeet*), Ajit Pandey presented Sufi and Ghazal pieces, and Arohi and Chandni mesmerized the audience with their devotional songs (*Bhajans*). A highlight of the event was the Kathak duet performed by renowned dancers Aditya Srivastava and Amit Kumar, which garnered immense applause. During the program, Guru Bakshi Vikas—a disciple of the institution's founder, Pandit Birju Maharaj—earned great acclaim for his expressive performance (*Bhav Abhinaya*) depicting the playful banter between Radha and Krishna, set to the *Thumri* composition "Kahe Karat Mose Raar Chhaila." Young dancers Purvi and Siddhi Anand captivated everyone with their graceful expressions and gestures. On this occasion, international Kathak dancer Rajiv Ranjan was honored with the 'Guest of Honor' award. The proceedings were anchored by Govind Vallabh, while the vote of thanks was delivered by the institution's President, Kumar Pushpak, and Secretary, Nisha Kumari.