Powerful performances light up stage at HARVEST: Rhythms of the Earth: Grameen Bharat Mahotsav

Powerful performances light up stage at HARVEST: Rhythms of the Earth: Grameen Bharat Mahotsav

The Grameen Bharat Mahotsav, a grand celebration of rural India’s entrepreneurial spirit and cultural heritage, began today at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. The Mahotsav being organised by NABARD under the aegis of Department of Financial Services featured a five-day cultural festival – HARVEST: Rhythms of the Earth, conceptualised by Sanjeev Bhargava of SEHER. Themed as ‘Taking Rural India Forward,’ the festival spans the length and breadth of India, showcasing the diverse folklore, artistry, and musical traditions that define the country’s heartland.

The opening day of HARVEST was marked by a spellbinding performance lineup, beginning with tranquil Vedic chants by Panini Kanya Mahavidyalaya from Varanasi. The soulful melodies of Rajasthan’s Manganiyar tradition followed, with Manjoor Khan Manganiyar & Group captivating the audience. The evening reached its crescendo with the grace of Kuchipudi, performed by Ayana Mukherjee & Group from Andhra Pradesh and the rhythmic brilliance of Kathak by Gauri Diwakar & Group from Central India leaving the audience enthralled.

The second day of the five-day cultural festival, began with a captivating blend of cultural expressions. Day 2 began with the meditative resonance of Shankh Vadan by the Subah-E-Banaras Group from Uttar Pradesh, creating a serene ambiance. This was followed by the evocative melodies of Kashmiri Folk & Sufi Music by Noor Mohammad Shah, which brought the ethereal beauty of Kashmir to life. The rhythmic and acrobatic Pung Cholom by Priti Patel & Group from Manipur added an energetic twist, leaving the audience in awe. The day concluded on a spiritual high with the soul-stirring Sufiana Qawwali by Ustad Chand Afzal & Group from Delhi, earning resounding applause.

Sanjeev Bhargava, Founder and Director of Seher, added, “With HARVEST, we’ve created a platform that brings the soul of rural India to center stage. Every performance is a living story—rooted in tradition yet evolving with time, showcasing the resilience and vibrancy of our rural communities. This festival celebrates not only the richness of our heritage but also how it continues to inspire and adapt in today’s world.”

Over the next few days, the mahotsav will feature incredible performances, hands-on exhibits, and interactive experiences that showcase the vibrant culture of rural India.

HARVEST: Rhythms of the Earth will lead the way, offering an unforgettable journey into the rich creative traditions that define India’s diverse heritage.

This cultural festival promises to captivate audiences with dazzling performances in Hall No. 14 at Bharat Mandapam, running daily from 5:30 PM to 08:00 PM until January 08, 2025