By Special Corespondent,Kolkata: Kalajyoti, the brainchild of Guru Smt Monalisa Ghosh, established on 7th January 2000 in the South 24 Pargana, at Rajpur, has devoted itself to promote and deepen awareness of Indian Traditional Dance form, especially Odissi, along with inculcating rigorous self-discipline as part of grooming young talents in line with the philosophy of upholding a Gurukul system amidst the appropriate traditional ambience, a few of their most talented students have been sponsored to the other shores of the world as delegates and special invitees, to demonstrate the rich heritage of Indian Classical Dance in the form of Odissi under the able guidance of Guru Monalisa Ghosh.
Kalajyoti Mahotsavs is a yearly feature and has been blessed by the presence of dignitaries and spiritual gurus – Governor of West Bengal Sri Keshari Nath Tripathi.
Keeping in mind, the uncertainty of the Corona situation, Festival ‘ALANKAR’, planned by Kalajyoti, saw a huge success this year which provided a platform by inspiring cultural motivation amongst youth, and budding artists by performances and choreographic presentations by eminent Gurus and Exponents who have dedicated several decades of their life in practicing of certain art forms.
Alankar Festival, which began on the 19th September, proudly presented – Jewels Of The World.
Executive members of Kalajyoti conducted lighting of the Lamp ceremony at Kalamandap –the ethnic Theatre.
The Festival was inaugurated virtually, with an inspiring speech by Padmavibhusan Dr. Sonal Mansingh, Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha. Her words of wisdom enlightened the viewers of Spiritual connection with Indian classical dance.
Padmashree Ranjana Gauhar shared words of wisdom with the viewers followed by a
recital – her own composition, Dancing footsteps in Rain.
Pandit Mannarkoil Balaji’s mastery in Mridangam was apparent in his execution of the rhythmic varieties. Dr. Anjana Moyee Saikia presented an extremely graceful Sattriya recital, was followed by an expressive Kuchipudi recital by Nritya Chudamani Smt. Vyjayanti Kashi. Sangit Bharati Pandit Chetan Joshi performed his melodious Flute recital.Padmashree Sashadhar Acharya presented a picturesque Chchau Nritya.
The first day concluded by an Odissi recital, ashtapadi from Geeta Govindam, by Padmavibhusan Dr. Sonal Mansingh. About 70 performers were presented in the Festival.
Alankar Festival after its huge success in 2020 is coming up with Alankar Festival season ll from7th to 10th January 2021 in collaboration with EZCC.