The LTG Auditorium at Mandi House, New Delhi, reverberated this August with the vibrancy of theatre and the thunder of applause. Organized by Natsamrat, the Summer Theatre Festival offered audiences a kaleidoscope of performances that made them laugh, stirred their emotions, and provoked deep reflection. Each play was directed by the acclaimed Delhi-based theatre director Shyam Kumar, whose creative vision and disciplined stagecraft elevated every production into a memorable experience.

The festival commenced on 2nd August with Anton Chekhov’s celebrated one-act play The Proposal. What begins as a simple marriage proposal soon spirals into a heated quarrel over land and dogs, leaving audiences in peals of unexpected laughter. On the same day, the satirical Kallu Nai MBBS was staged—an incisive portrayal of rural ironies through the comic clashes of a drunken barber and his wife. Both plays were so well received that they were restaged on 10th August, once again drawing enthusiastic applause.

On 15th August, marking Independence Day, the same two plays returned to the stage. Amid laughter and wit, audiences were invited not only to reflect upon rural contradictions but also to rediscover the sharp brilliance of Chekhov’s pen.

The evening of 23rd August brought a unique blend of sensitivity and humor. Kuch Tum Kaho Kuch Hum Kahein by Ashish Kotwal presented an intense dialogue between a lonely elderly doctor and the free-spirited Mansi, unraveling layers of relationships, empathy, and self-realization that touched the hearts of spectators. Following this, R.B. Singh’s satirical gem Meri Biwi Ki Shaadi had the audience roaring with laughter, as a hypochondriac patient, obsessed with his own imaginary death, entangled himself in absurd worries about his wife’s future.

The 30th August evening immersed the audience in the layered world of Chekhov and the eternal theme of love. Chekhov Ka Sansar offered glimpses into the Russian master’s life philosophy and stories, while Satya Prakash’s Kambakht Ishq sensitively explored the loneliness of the elderly and their longing for true companionship—making the audience laugh as much as it moved them to tears.

The festival concluded on 31st August with two powerful performances. J.N. Kaushal’s Kya Karega Qazi kept audiences entertained with the hilarious failures and fumbling efforts of the clumsy barber Fakhruddin. This was followed by Bichchu, inspired by Molière’s classic, which humorously portrayed the tug-of-war between lovers and fathers, blending satire with sparkling wit.

Throughout the festival, performers such as Vishwajit, Munmun, Shivangi, Aman Kumar, Raman Kumar, Dhananjay, Ansh Rathore, Rajan K. Bhatheja, and Adyasha Mohanty brought each story alive through their powerful stage presence and spirited dialogue delivery. Balanced use of set design, lighting, and music added to the immersive experience, keeping the audience spellbound.

Equally significant was the contribution of the technical team, who worked tirelessly behind the scenes. Sunil Rathore, Suraj Singh Pawan, Nisha, Raj Rani, Payal Rani, Rohit Prasad, and Poonam managed costumes with precision, while Vansh Rathore created the musical atmosphere that enriched every performance.

More than a series of plays, the Summer Theatre Festival of NatSamrat Sanstha was a celebration of the diversity and power of Indian theatre. With humor, satire, and heartfelt storytelling, the festival not only entertained but also offered profound glimpses into the truths of life. For an entire month, LTG Auditorium pulsated with theatrical energy, leaving audiences with memories that will linger long beyond the final curtain call.

The Sahitya Akademi auditorium in Delhi recently hosted the grand launch of senior poet, storyteller, and Chancellor of Rabindranath Tagore University Santosh Choubey’s much-awaited short story collection “Gareebnawaz”. Jointly organized by Vanmali Srijan Peeth, Delhi, and Rajkamal Prakashan Group, the event drew the participation of many noted writers, critics, and literature enthusiasts. Prior to this collection, Choubey had already published six widely acclaimed volumes including Halkey Rang Ki Kameez, Restauran Mein Dopahar, Nau Binduon Ka Khel, Beech Prem Mein Gandhi, Magar Shakespeare Ko Yaad Rakhna, and Pratinidhi Kahaniyan. The new book was released in the presence of celebrated author Mamata Kalia and senior writer Janki Prasad Sharma, who presided over the ceremony. Choubey himself read the title story “Gareebnawaz” and shared insights into his creative journey, emphasizing that readability, innocence, and visual intensity remain central to his craft.

Mamata Kalia praised Choubey for his commitment to social realities, describing “Gareebnawaz” as a powerful portrayal of class conflict and human resilience. Presiding guest Janki Prasad Sharma remarked that Choubey’s greatest strength lies in his extraordinary readability, noting that his stories sweep readers along while raising urgent questions of contemporary life and weaving memory and critique into their very fabric. Noted critic Akhilesh highlighted the originality of Choubey’s storytelling, pointing out how his works resist conventional forms while engaging with the distortions of capital, technology, and power, ultimately defending the beauty of life. Senior critic Vinod Tiwari observed that the long stories in this collection will be remembered in the history of Hindi fiction, as they carry recurring motifs of love, compassion, humanity, and sensitivity while also transcending genres.

Writer Alpana Mishra admired the intimate pace of Choubey’s stories that culminate in profound realizations, while young author Ashutosh noted how Choubey begins and ends his stories with curiosity, keeping them firmly in narrative control and marked by a scientific and humanistic outlook. The event began with a welcome address by senior poet Leeladhar Mandloi, Chairman of Vanmali Srijan Peeth, and greetings from Jyoti Raghuvanshi. It was skillfully anchored by young writer Pranjal Dhar and Kunal Singh, with Ashok Maheshwari of Rajkamal Prakashan extending a heartfelt vote of thanks. With the presence of distinguished writers, critics, and literature lovers from across Delhi NCR, the launch of “Gareebnawaz” became not just a book release but a vibrant celebration of Santosh Choubey’s enduring contribution to contemporary Hindi literature.

New Delhi, August 31
The monthly symposium at the Central Office of Sanskar Bharati once again emerged as a vibrant confluence of art, literature, and culture. This gathering witnessed a rare harmony of music and theatrical literature, leaving the audience deeply moved and inspired.

The evening commenced with a soulful performance by young vocalist Suhani Kaushik and flutist Sumit Sharma, whose melodious notes transported the audience into a realm of devotion and artistic grace, setting the perfect tone for the sessions ahead.

The highlight of the symposium was the intellectual discourse on “Playwriting from a Social Perspective: Possibilities and Challenges”, led by Prof. Rajnish Kumar Mishra of Jawaharlal Nehru University and Prof. Chandan Chaubey of Delhi University.

Prof. Mishra emphasized that no art can achieve true meaning without immersing itself in the life of the people. He observed that even today, society often feels uneasy when confronted with literature that dares to mirror its realities.
Prof. Chaubey, on the other hand, highlighted how devotional traditions found their widest expression through performing arts, which have carried culture directly into the hearts of the masses. He further reflected on the responsibility of playwrights, noting that their craft contributes to shaping the cultural and historical dimensions of character creation.

The thought-provoking addresses inspired the audience towards deeper reflection and dialogue. The session was skillfully moderated by Raj Upadhyay, Stage Arts Coordinator of Delhi Province.

More than just a platform for artistic expression, Sanskar Bharati’s monthly symposium reaffirmed its role as a forum for meaningful intellectual engagement on art, society, and culture. Once again, the event underscored the timeless truth that art, literature, and society together shape the cultural personality of the nation.

The program was graced by eminent Mohan Veena artist Ajay Kumar, Sanskar Bharati Delhi Province Minister Dr. Prashant Upadhyay, along with distinguished professors, research scholars, and students of Delhi University.

The success of the symposium was made possible through the dedicated efforts of Program Coordinator Kuldeep Sharma, Symposium Coordinators Shruti Sinha, Bharti Dang, Garima Rani, Sneha Mukherjee, Harshit Goyal, Saurabh Tripathi, Vijender Kumar, Sushank, Brijesh and team members. A special appreciation goes to Vishwadeep, who not only played a vital role as co-coordinator but also skillfully conducted the stage proceedings with grace and excellence.

वीर गोकुला

समीक्षा: अनिल गोयल

18 अगस्त 2025 को देव फौजदार ने दिल्ली के एल.टी.जी. प्रेक्षागृह में भारतीय इतिहास की एक भूली-बिसरी कहानी ‘वीर गोकुला’ प्रस्तुति की।  धर्मान्ध औरंगजेब के अत्याचारों से बृज क्षेत्र के साधारण-जन बहुत परेशान हो जाते हैं।  हिन्दुओं के मन्दिर तोड़े जाते थे, उनकी स्त्रियों को दुर्व्यवहार का शिकार होना पड़ता था।
         शिवाजी के गुरु समर्थ गुरु रामदास उन दिनों मथुरा आए हुए थे।  उनसे प्रेरणा और मार्गदर्शन लेकर वहाँ के तिलपत का एक जाट जमींदार गोकुलसिंह या गोकुलराम या गोकुला आस-पास के गाँव वालों को संगठित करता है, और सन 1669 में औरंगजेब की सेना से लोहा लेता है।  समर्थ गुरु रामदास उन लोगों को गुरिल्ला युद्ध की तकनीकें भी इन्हें सिखाते हैं।
         इसमें एक महत्वपूर्ण बात निर्देशक ने दिखाई कि वहाँ की महिलाओं ने भी गोकुला के इस संघर्ष में बढ़-चढ़ कर हिस्सा लिया था।  पुरुष-स्त्री सभी विशाल मुगल सेना के साथ युद्ध करते हैं।  प्रारम्भ में गोकुला की बीस हजार सिपाहियों की इस सेना को कई छोटी-छोटी सफलताएँ भी मिलीं, लेकिन मुगलों की विशाल सेना से वो भला कब तक लड़ता?
         अन्त में वह औरंगजेब की सेना के द्वारा बन्दी बना लिया जाता है।  वे लोग गोकुला को इस्लाम स्वीकार करने को कहते हैं, जिसे वो अस्वीकार कर देता है।  इस पर मुगल सेना 1 जनवरी 1670 को उसे मौत के घाट उतार देती है।  उसकी पत्नी और अन्य स्त्रियाँ जौहर करने को मजबूर हो जाती हैं।  लेकिन यहाँ का जौहर अग्नि में जल कर नहीं हुआ था, बल्कि यहाँ पर स्त्रियों ने कटार से आत्महत्या की थी!
         यह घटना भरतपुर के जाट राजा सूरजमल से चार पीढ़ी पहले हुई बताई जाती है।  कहा जाता है कि इस छोटी सी घटना ने आगे चल कर भरतपुर राज्य की नींव डालने में महत्वपूर्ण भूमिका निभाई थी।  नाटक के निर्देशक देव फौजदार स्वयं इस बृज क्षेत्र से ही आते हैं, अतः उनकी प्रस्तुति में प्रामाणिकता का होना निश्चित माना जा सकता है; क्योंकि इतिहास केवल वही नहीं होता जिसे विजेता लिखवाते हैं, अपितु ऐसे कठिन काल का इतिहास प्रायः ही लोककथाओं में घुल-मिल जाता है!  और फिर, हमारे इतिहास की तो लाखों पुस्तकें और पाण्डुलिपियाँ जला भी दी गई थीं!  ऐसे में इतिहास की तथाकथित “प्रामाणिकता” का प्रश्न भारत में निरर्थक हो जाता है।
         देव फौजदार बताते हैं कि कुछ ही समय चल पाये इस संघर्ष में ब्राह्मणों, वैश्यों, यादवों, गूजरों, जाटवों, और बाल्मीकि सहित सभी जातियों ने अपना सहयोग दिया था।  माथुर वैश्य समाज ने इन युद्धों के लिये धन उपलब्ध करवाया था… और गोकुला की मृत्यु के बाद इस क्षेत्र में माथुर वैश्यों के तीन सौ गाँवों को जला दिया गया था।  देव बताते हैं कि गोकुला के खजाने की रक्षा का काम चमार या जाटव तथा बाल्मीकि जाति के लोगों ने सम्भाला था, जो परम्परा सूरज मल जी तक भी इसी प्रकार चलती रही!
         नाटक को निर्देशित करने के अतिरिक्त, एक दर्जन के लगभग पुस्तकों से शोध करके इस नाटक को लिखा भी देव फौजदार ने ही है।  एक ऐतिहासिक नाटक में सबसे अधिक महत्वपूर्ण होता है कलाकारों का अपनी ऊर्जा को बनाये रखना।  उस हिसाब से यह एक सफल नाट्य प्रस्तुति रही – सभी कलाकारों ने नाटक के अन्त तक पूरी ऊर्जा के साथ नाटक को खेला।  नाटक की ऊर्जावान गति को बनाये रखने में संगीत ने पूर्ण सहयोग दिया।  देव फौजदार ने अपनी रचनात्मक परिकल्पना से ऐसे दृश्यबन्ध तैयार किये कि दर्शक सम्मोहित हो जाते थे।
         नाटक का संगीत मोहन सागर और प्रसून ने दिया था, और तलवार चलाने का प्रशिक्षण गुरु विश्वजीत ने दिया, जिससे दृश्यों में एक जादुई प्रभाव पैदा हुआ।  लड़ाई के दृश्य फाईट मास्टर रूपेश चौहान ने तैयार किये थे, जबकि सृजनात्मक पक्ष की जिम्मेवारी प्रसिद्ध दृश्यबन्ध निर्माता जयन्त देशमुख ने निभाई।

On 18th August, the historic Kamani Auditorium in New Delhi witnessed a theatrical evening that transcended performance and turned into a soulful experience. “Yugpurush”, written and directed by Jayvardhan (J.P. Singh), offered precisely such a rare journey. Through this play, the director dared to bring to the stage the confluence of the guru–disciple tradition, spirituality, and human inquiry—and this daring vision succeeded on every level.

The performance began with the grand worship of Goddess Kali. The resounding beats of the dhak, the echo of conch shells, and the chanting of priests transformed the stage into a sacred temple. This was not just a religious tableau, but a conscious theatrical choice, transporting the audience to the spiritual ground where the journeys of Vivekananda and Ramakrishna began. Here, the culture of Bengal does not remain a mere backdrop but emerges as an inseparable part of the narrative. Costumes, music, and dance brought the stage alive—red-bordered saris, traditional dhotis, the melodic flow of kirtans, and classical gestures combined to transcend time and space, carrying the audience to nineteenth-century Calcutta.

One of J.P. Singh’s greatest strengths lies in his ability to balance tradition with modern theatrical technique. Stage design and lighting were not confined to creating atmosphere; they actively deepened the play’s philosophical resonance. Whether it was the steps of the Dakshineswar temple or the historic moment of the Chicago Parliament of Religions, projections and scene transitions provided not only dramatic flair but also symbolic depth. Light at times expressed Vivekananda’s inner turbulence, and at other times lingered on the compassionate smile of Ramakrishna.

The soul of the production was carried by its performances. Vipin Kumar, as Ramakrishna Paramhansa, infused the role with simplicity and spiritual radiance, making the presence of divinity palpable on stage. His compassionate gaze and subtle smile did not merely represent the character—they embodied it. Sudheer Rikhari, as Swami Vivekananda, brought to life the disciple’s inquisitive, logical, and energetic spirit. His voice and body language rekindled the memory of that historic moment when Vivekananda introduced Indian philosophy and spirituality to the world in Chicago. Together, their performances created the heartbeat of the play—the tender assurance of the guru alongside the restless questioning of the disciple, ultimately merging into a profound philosophy of life.

The greatest strength of Yugpurush is that it is not a simple dramatic recreation of historical or mythological figures. It is, at its core, a philosophical journey. Vivekananda’s scientific rationality and Ramakrishna’s devotional fervor converge to remind us that even today the true path of life lies in balancing these two poles.

A special note must be made of Jayvardhan (J.P. Singh). As both playwright and director, he proves that theatre for him is not merely an art form but a medium to bring life-philosophy to society. His writing lends depth to the dialogues, while his direction renders them alive both visually and aurally. For him, theatre is not simply “entertainment” but a path to “self-realization”—and this is the play’s greatest achievement.

In the end, “Yugpurush” is not just a stage production; it is a call of the soul. It demonstrates that the union of devotion and reason is the true essence of life. Even after the curtain falls, the experience resonates within the mind for long—and that is the hallmark of truly great theatre.

An evocative evening of imagination, meditation, and Indian aesthetics at Kala Sankul

New Delhi, July 27
There are evenings that entertain, and then there are evenings that elevate. The recent Monthly Art Symposium hosted at Sanskar Bharati’s central office, Kala Sankul, was undoubtedly the latter. With the theme “Antaryatra: Imagination, Art and Meditation,” the gathering blossomed into an intimate and deeply reflective cultural experience — one that resonated with the soul.

Anchoring this vibrant dialogue was Smt. Vaishali Gahlyan, Assistant Professor of Philosophy at Miranda House, University of Delhi. In a keynote address that seamlessly wove aesthetics with spirituality, Dr. Gahlyan explored the essence of Indian art as a form of inner sadhana (spiritual practice), stating:

“Indian art is not merely a display of beauty, but a meditative discipline — a trinity of imagination, creation, and contemplation that draws the artist closer to self-realization.”

Her thoughts echoed through the hall, reaffirming the ancient Indian perspective of art not just as expression, but as realization — a means to connect the microcosm with the macrocosm.

The event commenced with a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony, presided over by Smt . Vaishali Gahlyan along with symposium convenor Smt. Shruti Sinha, co-convenor Sh. Vishwadeep, Delhi Prant’s stage art convenor Sh. Raj Upadhyay, and programme director Sh. Shyam Kumar — each a dedicated torchbearer of India’s living art traditions.

🎶 Monsoon Melodies & Cultural Echoes

As the gentle drizzle of Sawan graced the capital, the atmosphere inside Kala Sankul mirrored the rhythm of the rains. A soulful Kajri recital swept through the venue, filling hearts with seasonal nostalgia. Led by Sneha Mukherjee, along with young vocalists Lavanya Sinha, Manya Narang, and Ruhi, the performance paid homage to the folk spirit, evoking memories of lush fields and festive homes.

Amit Sridhar’s deft touch on the synthesizer and Tushar Goyal’s crisp tabla beats added texture and depth, making the musical interlude a celebration of India’s rich rural music heritage.

👣 Dance as Devotion

What followed was nothing short of poetry in motion. Kathak dancer Neelakshi Khandekar Saxena transported the audience with a presentation that captured the grace, strength, and rhythmic prowess of Indian womanhood. Her recital was a vivid tapestry of bhava, laya, and gati — a visual meditation that perfectly embodied the evening’s theme of “Antaryatra.”

🌟 Presence of Stalwarts & Artistic Solidarity

The event drew an impressive gathering of eminent personalities from Delhi’s cultural milieu. Among those in attendance were Kathak legend Pandit Rajendra Gangani, noted flautist Pandit Chetan Joshi, and National School of Drama Registrar Shri Pradeep Mohanty. Their presence lent gravity and warmth to the event, as did the attendance of various scholars, researchers, young artists, and art lovers.

Adding to the smooth flow of the evening was the poised anchoring by Sh. Kuldeep Sharma, whose narration stitched the various segments with thoughtfulness and flair.

🙏 Behind Every Great Evening…

Behind the artistic grace of the evening lay the quiet dedication of many. Pradeep Pathak (tabla), Shraboni Saha, Garima Rani, Harshit Goyal, Saurabh Tripathi, Brijesh, Shivam, Vijendra, Mrityunjay, Sushank, Sakshi Sharma, Priyanka, and Kala Sankul’s devoted manager Shri Digvijay ji — each played a vital role in ensuring a seamless, dignified, and heartfelt celebration of Indian arts.

🌸 A Living Space for Thought & Tradition

With each passing month, Sanskar Bharati’s Monthly Art Symposiums are evolving into a sacred space for dialogue, tradition, and creative introspection. More than a platform for performances, they are becoming vibrant forums where Indian art finds contemporary voice, where aesthetic experience meets spiritual insight, and where the soul of Bharat breathes freely in brushstrokes, rhythms, and reflections.

Review By: Dr. Durga Prasad Agrwal

8 मार्च 1921 को लुधियाना में जन्मे साहिर लुधियानवी जितना अपने फ़िल्मी गीतों के लिए जाने जाते हैं उतना ही, या शायद उससे भी ज़्यादा अपनी ग़ैर फिल्मी रचनाओं के लिए भी जाने और सराहे जाते हैं. ‘परछाइयां’ उनकी एक लम्बी नज़्म है जिसे उर्दू साहित्य में बहुत महत्वपूर्ण रचना माना जाता है. अली सरदार जाफ़री ने इस नज़्म को उर्दू अदब में एक खूबसूरत इज़ाफ़ा कहकर सराहा है. कविता में कहानी को समेटे हुए यह नज़्म अपनी बनावट और बुनावट में महाकाव्यात्मक है. नज़्म बहुत ही प्रभावशाली तरीके से युद्ध का विरोध करती है. हालांकि इसकी पृष्ठभूमि द्वितीय महायुद्ध की है, यह नज़्म आज भी उतनी ही प्रासंगिक है. शायद उससे भी ज़्यादा. कालजयी रचना इसी को तो कहते हैं!

आज शाम जयपुर के राजस्थान इण्टरनेशनल सेण्टर के सभागार में इस नज़्म की बहुत कलात्मक और प्रभावशाली प्रस्तुति देखकर लौटा हूं और उलझन में हूं कि नज़्म को सराहूं या प्रस्तुति को! जैसा मैंने कहा, नज़्म तो महान है ही, डॉ लईक हुसैन के निर्देश में इसकी नृत्य नाटिका रूप में प्रस्तुति भी इतनी ही भव्य और प्रभावशाली थी. सुपरिचित गायक और संगीतकार डॉ प्रेम भण्डारी ने कोई चालीस बरस पहले इस नज़्म की मंचीय प्रस्तुति का सपना देखा था और जब इस सपने के साकार रूप को आज शाम मुझे देखने का मौका मिला तो मैंने महसूस किया कि कुछ चीज़ों का जादू ऐसा होता है कि उसकी सराहना के लिए शब्द कम पड़ जाते हैं. डॉ भण्डारी की परिकल्पना को लईक हुसैन और उनके साथियों ने साकार किया और ख़ुद डॉ भण्डारी और उनके साथियों ने इस प्रस्तुति में संगीत के रंग भरे. पूरी नज़्म में बार-बार छंद परिवर्तन होता है और मैंने महसूस किया कि ऐसे हर परिवर्तन के समय डॉ भण्डारी का गाने का लहज़ा भी बदल रहा था. इतनी लम्बी नज़्म को इतने वैविध्य के साथ गाना नहीं, अदा करना कोई मामूली काम नहीं था, लेकिन मुझे खुशी है और गर्व भी कि मेरे बचपन के साथी डॉ भडारी ने यह करिश्मा कर दिखाया. साहिर के लफ़्ज़ों को उनकी दमदार आवाज़ में सुनना एक अलौकिक अनुभव था. असल में डॉ भण्डारी की आवाज़ में जब साहिर की अनेक बार पढ़ी हुई और लगभग याद हो चली इस नज़्म को सुन रहा था तो उसके कई नए अर्थ खुल रहे थे.

‘परछाइयां’ की यह प्रस्तुति सारी सराहनाओं से ऊपर वाली प्रस्तुति थी. जिन्होंने इसे देखा वे भाग्यशाली हैं और जिन्होंने नहीं देखा, उनसे यही अनुरोध है कि जब भी उन्हें इसे देखने का मौका मिले, उस मौके को लपक कर थाम लें. राजस्थान इण्टरनेशनल सेण्टर, लईक हुसैन, डॉ प्रेम भण्डारी और उनकी सारी टीम को बहुत बहुत बधाई, और हार्दिक आभार.

On the auspicious day of 10th July 2025, the Guru Purnima Celebration held at the Kala Sankul premises of Sanskar Bharati, New Delhi, transformed into a vibrant cultural expression of India’s eternal guru-shishya tradition — not just in words, but through the language of dance, music, and soul.

The program began with Nataraja worship and Guru Vandana, infusing the atmosphere with a rare spiritual luminosity. The sacred invocation was not merely a ritual—it became a journey of surrender, discipline, and artistic elevation.
To confine Nataraja merely as the “Lord of Dance” would be to overlook His cosmic magnificence. This deeper essence came alive in the words of Chief Guest, Sh. Murari Sharan Shukla, who eloquently remarked that Nataraja is not a symbol bound to art alone, but the embodiment of motion and universal consciousness itself. His reflection echoed through the hearts of the audience:

“The posture of Nataraja resonates with the movement of the cosmos—it is the rhythmic expression of Shiva’s creative power.”

Though Sh. Shukla’s address came at the culmination of the event, its philosophical resonance permeated every segment of the evening.

The musical trio that followed offered a melodic glimpse into the richness of Indian ragas. Yagyata Gaba’s performance reflected youthful innocence intertwined with musical maturity. Then came Urja Akshara, who rendered a composition in Raga Desh, evoking the musical aroma of the monsoon. Finally, the ensemble presentation by disciples of Sneha Mukherjee – Manya Narang, Ruhi Jaiswal, Lavanya Sinha, and Siddh Jaiswal – stood as a living testimony to the bond between guru and disciple.

Their collective performance glowed not only with technical finesse but with grace, harmony, and discipline. It was an offering, filled with sweetness and reverence, a melody wrapped in devotion.

The sequence of dance performances that followed created a visual symphony for the soul. Nandini’s Kathak recital, a tribute to her guru Smt. Shruti Sinha, was a dance of devotion – an artistic pranam. Through the rhythm, expression, and precision of Kathak, she sculpted an unspoken homage to her teacher. The event was anchored gracefully by Garima Rani, whose poised compering added charm to the proceedings.

This celebration was far more than an annual ritual – it emerged as a sacred yajna, where each disciple offered their art in heartfelt tribute to their guru. Every act on stage was not just a performance, but a living sentiment – of respect, surrender, and the continuation of a timeless legacy.

This Guru Purnima will be remembered not only for its artistic brilliance, but because it upheld a profound truth:

That the Guru is the light of life, and Art is the language of that light.

Sanskar Bharati must be lauded for keeping this flame alive — not just on stage, but in the spirit of every participant. In honoring the guru, they honored the very soul of Indian cultural heritage.

New Delhi – The monthly symposium held at Kala Sankul, the central office of Sanskar Bharati, became a resplendent celebration of Indian classical heritage and cultural contemplation. Designed to merge the profound legacy of India’s traditional arts with contemporary discourse, the event stood as a testament to the enduring relevance of our civilizational ethos.

At the core of the symposium was an enchanting performance of Sattriya—the classical dance form rooted in the 15th-century Vaishnavite devotional movement of Assam, pioneered by the great saint Srimanta Sankardev through his Ankiya Naat. In a performance that stirred both the senses and the spirit, dancers Sukanya Barua and Sumanya Kashyap brought the divine art form to life. Their presentation, steeped in rigorous training, aesthetic sensitivity, and rhythmic precision, unveiled the spiritual depth and narrative beauty intrinsic to Sattriya.

Complementing the artistic experience was an intellectually enriching keynote address by Dr. Sachchidanand Joshi, Member Secretary of the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), Delhi. In his address, he eloquently advocated for the inclusion of the Bhagavad Gita and the Natyashastra in UNESCO’s World Heritage List. “The Gita is not merely a religious scripture,” he emphasized, “but a timeless philosophy of life; and the Natyashastra, the scientific foundation of Indian artistic consciousness.” His words resonated deeply, drawing attention to the unfortunate irony that many of India’s priceless spiritual texts remain better preserved abroad than within our own institutions.

Shri Joshi also raised a critical concern regarding the preservation of India’s manuscript wealth—while India houses the largest number of ancient manuscripts globally, the number of scholars actively studying and interpreting them remains alarmingly low. His reflections served not just as commentary, but as a call to action—urging institutions, artists, and scholars toward research and revival.

The symposium saw the gracious presence of distinguished personalities from the cultural and academic domains. Among them were Dr. Vinod Narayan Indurkar, Chairman of CCRT; Sh. Rahul Kumar, Deputy Director, CCRT; renowned Odissi exponent Kasturi Patnaik; Sh. Jitendra Kumar, Convenor of the Visual Arts Department, Sanskar Bharati Delhi; Shri Raj Upadhyay, Performing Arts Convenor; playwright Sh. Alok Shukla; art critic Shashi Prabha Tiwari, along with many other senior artists, scholars, and cultural connoisseurs.

A large team of dedicated volunteers played an integral role in the successful execution of the event. Key contributors included Convenor Garima Rani, Co-convenor Vishwadeep, Sneha Mukherjee, Eminent Theatre Director Shyam Kumar, Shraboni Saha, Saurabh Triathi, Harshit Goyal, Pradeep Pathak, Muskan, Khushi, Kriti, Sakshi Sharma, and Tarushi, whose behind-the-scenes efforts were deeply appreciated.

The proceedings were elegantly compered by senior anchor Bharati Dang, whose poise and eloquence added grace to the evening. The formal vote of thanks was delivered by Sh. Kuldeep Sharma, convenor of the theatrical wing, and the event concluded on a tranquil note with the chanting of the Shanti Mantra.

More than just a cultural evening, this symposium served as a meaningful reminder of India’s vast artistic and philosophical legacy. It illustrated how, even in an age of rapid modernization, there remains a deep well of tradition from which we continue to draw inspiration. It reaffirmed that tradition and progress are not opposing forces—but vital companions on the journey of cultural continuity.

On June 14 and 16, 2025, the Faculty of Humanities and Liberal Arts at Rabindranath Tagore University, Bhopal, witnessed the powerful staging of two stylistically diverse plays — “Chekhov Ki Duniya” and “Urubhanga”. These productions were presented by the students of the MPA (Drama) and PG Diploma in Natyashastra as part of a national theatre workshop held from May 7 to 16, marking the culmination of their second semester curriculum. Through these performances, the students skillfully bridged classical Indian theatrical traditions with modern experimental aesthetics.

The two productions stood as compelling contrasts. While one portrayed the ironic absurdities of modern Western society through humour, the other breathed life into the deep emotional undercurrents of Indian mythology through poignant tragedy.

“Chekhov Ki Duniya” — A Humorous Reflection of Social Irony

Staged on June 14, “Chekhov Ki Duniya” was based on three comic one-act plays by Russian literary master Anton Chekhov — Cheeenk, The Bank Manager, and Surgery. Under the seasoned direction of Shyam Kumar and co-direction of Shraboni Saha, the play brought forth the complexities hidden in seemingly trivial incidents. From the social awkwardness triggered by a simple sneeze, to the oppressive nature of bureaucratic banking systems, and the cold commercialization of healthcare — each vignette was rendered with biting humour and subtle irony.

The ensemble cast brought these stories to life with remarkable authenticity. Sehej Harjai served as the narrator, with Ankit Chaudhary (Pyare Mohan), Tanshree Rane (Pyare Mohan’s wife), Sainand Valvaikar (General), and Oindrila Goswami (General’s wife) portraying Chekhovian characters with flair. Supporting roles by Santosh Rajput (Bank Manager), Sauptik Bhattacharya (Assistant Manager), Pooja Kewat (Woman), Praveen Namdev (Compounder), Davinder Singh Grover (Patient), and Deepak Bhardwaj (Audience Member) were met with hearty applause from both guests and viewers.

The backstage team worked with admirable precision. Stage management was handled by Davinder Singh Grover and Sehej Harjai. Costumes were designed by Deepak Bhardwaj, Santosh Grover coordinated props, lighting by Praveen Namdev, and musical direction was led by Vansh Rathore.

“Urubhanga” — A Mythological Tragedy That Stirred the Soul

Performed on June 16, “Urubhanga” is a poignant classical tragedy written by the Sanskrit playwright Bhasa. The play explores the psychological turmoil, remorse, and transformation of a wounded Duryodhana on the eighteenth day of the Mahabharata war. Under the direction of Dr. Sheetanshu Tripathi, the production delved into the devastating aftermath of war and internal conflict, deeply moving the audience.

Shubham Srivastava’s sensitive and intense portrayal of Duryodhana left an indelible mark. As the narrator, Pankaj Diwan effectively connected the audience with both the intellectual and emotional threads of the narrative. Supporting roles were performed by Adeeb Ansari, Sanjay Singh Negi (Ashwatthama), Prateek Chauhan (Dhritarashtra), Neeraj (Krishna), Richa Kalra (Gandhari), Shikha (Pauravi), Nisha Kudaikar (Malavi), Shubham Shivalikar (Durjaya), Unnish Pratap Singh (Baladeva), and the younger characters — Rahul Gupta, Prashant Kumar (Harshit), and Kartik Namdev — all delivering memorable performances.

The scenic design and costuming, supervised by Deepak Bhardwaj with active involvement from Kartik Namdev, enriched the stage with symbolic depth and aesthetic elegance.

Both performances were graced by distinguished guests — Chancellor Shri Santosh Choubey, Vice-Chancellor Prof. R. P. Dubey, and Dr. Prasad Bhide from Central Sanskrit University, Bhopal. After witnessing “Chekhov Ki Duniya”, the Chancellor lauded it as a sharp portrayal of social reality and commended both cast and crew. Regarding “Urubhanga”, Dr. Bhide praised its seamless fusion of ancient dramaturgy with modern theatrical techniques. Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dubey described both plays as commendable and emphasized the importance of sustaining such creative academic endeavours at the university.

The entire event was coordinated under the guidance of Dr. Sanjay Kumar Dubey, Dr. Savitri Singh Parihar, and Sh. Abhishek Deshmukh, whose leadership transformed this semester-end production into a rich academic and cultural experience.

“Chekhov Ki Duniya” and “Urubhanga” stand as testaments to the theatrical acumen, emotional insight, and creative potential of the students at Rabindranath Tagore University. These productions point towards a promising future — where tradition meets innovation, theory meets experience, and Indian roots engage meaningfully with global perspectives.