Medley of cultures, cuisines at crafts fair
Thousands of people thronged the National Crafts Mela at Kalagram here today.
A quiz for children, which was conducted by Dr Saurab Bhatt, saw nearly 200 participants, who had to answer a volley of questions on Indian culture, general knowledge, et al. A magic show by SK Sharma enthralled the visitors to the mela, a joint venture of the North Zone Cultural Centre (NZCC) and Chandigarh Administration.
In the morning and evening sessions, stage performances included Rajasthani folk singing by Murli. Artistes presented scintillating folk dances of various regions, including Jaabro (Ladakh), Kalbelia (Rajasthan), and Dhamaali (J&K). Amongst the regular ground performers were ‘Kachi Ghori (Rajasthan), Behurupiyas, Nachar and Baajigar (Punjab), Nagada and Been Jogis (Haryana).
Foodies gorged on their choicest traditional cuisines and culinary delights from various regions.
More than 600 artisans and craftsmen from different parts of the country have displayed handmade items of daily use, including crockery, cutlery, fabric, woollen garments and other winter wears, carpets, designer suits and sarees, at the fair.
The star singer of the evening was Kulwinder Billa. He sang from a rich repertoire of hit numbers, inviting the young and the old to shake a leg. The reigning queen of Pahadi folk singing, Geeta Bhardwaj, will perform at the mela tomorrow. The 10-day event will conclude on December 8.
