Sangeet Natak Akademi organized 'Rang Swadheenata'

Sangeet Natak Akademi organized 'Rang Swadheenata'

 To commemorate 75 years of India's independence, the Sangeet Natak Akademi organized 'Rang Swadheenata', which was a celebration to cherish the memories of the freedom fighters who laid down their lives to free India from the shackles of imperialism. The festival was held from 27 to 29 August 2022 at Meghdoot Auditorium. This year's festival specifically focused on folk singing styles.

 A total of 12 teams and around 100 artists from 9 states of India participated in this festival. Folk music traditions from across the country are presented in 'Rang Swadheenta'.

 The first day of 'Rang Swadheenata' started with a performance by Subhash Nagara & Group, who performed several tunes on Kaharwa Taal, popular Aalha artist Shri Ramrath Pandey started his performance by invoking Goddess Durga and with it he also narrated the heroic tales of Chandrashekhar Azad, Aalha Gayan usually performed during monsoons is sung in the form of Aalha Chhand.

 In Dhimrayai folk-song, the dancer usually carries a violin in his hand and plays it, accompanied by other musicians. Dhimrayai songs are based on religious, mythological, social and patriotic themes.

 Other artists presented ballads on the heroes of the freedom struggle. The performances of the last day began with Dharmendra Singh paying tribute to the freedom fighters in Ragini singing style.

 Ragini is a Kauravi folk song which is very popular throughout northern India, especially western Uttar Pradesh and Haryana. Dharmendra Singh is proficient in many styles of Ragini singing like Aalha, Bahare Tabeel, Chamola, Jhulna, Sohni, Alibaksh and Sawaiah etc.