The Bangla Sanskritik Mela will announce its arrival today with a Prabhat Pheri. organised by the Bengali Association.
The three-day event from April 26-28 at the Zila School grounds will incorporate a host of competitive and entertainment events steeped in the culture and ethos of Bengal.
On the cards are unique contests such as 'Shankhadhwani' or blowing a conch-shell, Uludhwani, the ululating sound made by women that is integral to any auspicious ceremony in Bengal, Bangla dictation, fancy dress and Eke-Eke Dui, a game for couples.
A classical note to the event will be added by the Nazrul-giti, Rabindra Sangeet and Raga-based music competitions, while dance will comprise Rabindra Nritya and Group Rabindra Nritya competitions.
"The Mela will be open from 10.30 am to 10.00 pm. The competitions are open to all irrespective of age-group; but we will put the participants in categories according to their age or class in which they are studying.
Prior registrations are also going on, and those interested can register on-the-spot as well," said Bhashwati Mishra, treasurer of the Bengali Association. So far 350 contestants have registered their participation in various events.
After action-packed mornings, the evenings will feature a mix of classical and light-hearted entertainment. A dance-drama titled 'Amritasya Putra', based on the life of Swami Vivekananda, to be performed by Rudragni, a group from Kolkata; a ballet by local artiste Hina Das and her students, and staging of the play 'Agyatvaas' by Koklata's Nadikar Theatre group which is directed by Rudra Prasad Sengupta will add the theatrical element to the programmes.
A tinge of fun and laughter will be injected by 'Miracle', a stand-up comedy act by Atanu Barman. The power of contemporary Bangla music will be displayed 'Matir Gaan' (songs of the Soil), a power-packed concert by 'Sahar', a rock-band from Kolkata in addition to the vocal performance of singer lopamudra.
The final evening will witness a concert by Jeet Ganguly, the music director of Bollywood hits like Aashiqui 2, Raaz 3, Shirin Farhad Ki To Nikal Padi, Blood Money, Mere Yaar ki Shaadi Hai and Bengali movies.
A treat is also in store for aficionados of classic Bangla movies and fans of the legendary Bengali actor Uttam Kumar. "The late thespian's grandson will be present during the three-day event with a selection of his illustrious grandfather's films, songs and music. A special kiosk has been set up for the same," revealed Mishra.
The festival will also have stalls showcasing the handloom textiles and handicrafts of West Bengal as well as Jharkhand. "
“The highlight will be block-print sarees, which are being brought here for the first time. Volunteers of the Bengali Youth forum will assist the organisers in ensuring smooth and secure conduct of events and also assist visitors when required," she said.
An array of dishes representing the best of Bengali cuisine will also be available at a separate stall; besides a variety of other snacks and food items.
"The ambience will be totally Bengali, and we even have a prize for the best-dressed person in Bengali attire," Mishra added.