8-day Haryanavi saang fest gets under way at Tagore Theatre

SD Sharma

Chandigarh, June 13

The rustic grace and twang of rich Haryanavi folklore came alive as the 10th summer edition of the eight-day Haryanavi Folk Theatre Saang Festival opened at Tagore Theatre here today.

The annual event, organised by the Department of Information, Public Relations and Culture Affairs, had been the highest crowd puller with Haryanavi folk music aficionados thronging the venue to relish the performances.

Sans any historical authenticity, a saang is weaved with engrossing story line aimed at providing a moralising sermon.

The opening saang, ‘Heera Mal–Jamaal’, written by Dhanpat Singh and directed by Sat Pal Sangi, brought into focus the message of communal harmony, brotherhood and reverence for all religions as Heera Mal, in the company of his friend Kamrudeen, had attained proficiency in the study of Quran. He happens to be the ‘ustad’ of Jamaal, young daughter of Hasan Ali Wazir. After many twists and turns, the already-married Heera marries Jamal too.

Satpal plays Heera Mal while male artistes attired in female costumes portray the roles of Jamaal and other characters. Stuffed with raaginis and spells of humour, the dances kept the audience spellbound. Haryana cultural officer Shiv Kumar honoured the artistes.

Saang ‘Gopi Chand Bhartari’ will be presented tomorrow.