Silchar: The city’s well-known dance institution, Nrityanjali, hosted its eighth annual function with grace and grandeur, turning the evening into a lively celebration of art and tradition. The Assam government–approved institution organised the event in multiple segments, each reflecting the spirit of cultural unity and creative expression.

The ceremony began with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp by chief guest and Rajya Sabha MP Kanad Purkayastha, alongside several distinguished guests — Silchar Development Authority Chairman Manjul Deb, social worker Rupam Nandi Purkayastha, advocate and social worker Tinku Majumder, Lumding-based dance instructor Pratap Sarkar, tabla artist and Barak Kantha editor Santosh Chanda, and Nrityanjali president and senior advocate Rajat Ghosh.

Guests offered floral tributes to the idols of Nataraja and Goddess Saraswati, followed by a moment of homage to the portrait of legendary singer Zubeen Garg. Artist Monopriya Deb’s soulful renditions set an emotional tone for the evening. The guests were later felicitated with traditional scarves, medals, and Nataraja mementos by the organisers.

Speaking on the occasion, MP Kanad Purkayastha lauded Nrityanjali’s consistent efforts to promote classical and folk art forms in the Barak Valley and assured his support for its future initiatives. Dance instructor Pratap Sarkar performed a ritual stage invocation before the cultural showcase began.

The performances opened with a captivating group presentation that fused Rabindra Nritya, Odissi, Bharatanatyam, and Kathak. Students of Nrityanjali also presented modern and Nazrul dances. Bharatanatyam instructor Gayatri Deb earned loud applause for her graceful rendition of Kaliyadaman, while Sathi Biswas and Shruti Biswas impressed with their Ardhanarishwar duet.

In the second segment, students presented pieces learned during a three-day workshop, including Ganesh Vandana Pushpanjali, Sarayojati, Alarippu, and Jatiswaram. The workshop trainer, Pratap Sarkar, also performed a solo Bharatanatyam recital that added artistic depth to the evening.

The final segment featured two major productions — Veer Purush and Samudra Manthan — choreographed by Gayatri Deb. Both productions stood out as highlights of the night, showcasing the region’s growing excellence in classical dance.

Winners of the accompanying drawing competition were awarded prizes, and participation certificates were handed out to all performers. The event was coordinated by Nrityanjali secretary and advocate Sonali Dey, while senior journalist Debashish Purkayastha and Janantika Bhattacharjee hosted the proceedings. Veteran dance teacher Shipra Purkayastha was also felicitated for her contributions to the art form.

The organising committee honored several eminent personalities for their contributions to culture, presenting them with mementos, traditional scarves, and gifts. The evening concluded with a vote of thanks by dance teacher Gayatri Deb.

Audience members described the event as one of the most memorable cultural evenings in recent times. The organizers announced plans to continue hosting such programmes and workshops in the future, reaffirming their commitment to promote dance and culture in the region.

Promotional | North East Integration Rally