Desi New Years are celebrated differently state-wise. However, in recent times, owing to the co-existence of many cultures in Gujarat, the state celebrates Bestu Varsh not only on the day that falls after Diwali, but also has started celebrating Punjabi’s Lohri, Sindhis’s Cheti Chand and Maharashtrian’s Gudi Padva – in a big way.
This time, Gudi Padva, the New Year of the Maharashtrian people was celebrated with a series of music and dance programs organized by Gujarat State Sangeet Natak Academy.
Dr Pradip Azad, secretary of Gujarat State Sangeet Natak Academy says, “Gudi Padvo is considered an occasion to mark new beginnings in Gujarat as it is the first day of Chaitri Navratri. And to celebrate World Dance Day and Gudi Padvo, we have invited a troop of 25 artists from Mumbai to perform in the city on March 23.”
Dr Sanddhya V Pureccha, noted Bharat Natyam dancer from Mumbai performed at Jay Shankar Sundari Hall with a group of 25 artists. The dancers performed Om Sarvam Shivamayam ballet, Mahalaxmiastakam and Durga Stuti.”
As part of the celebrations, on March 24, folk dance forms including Tipni, Garba, Ras, Hudo would be presented to mark completion of Annual FolkDance Shibir.On March 25, Neeraj Parikh would perform at a classical music concert. And to commemorate contribution of Avinash Vyas, late Gujarati literary stalwart, Dr Shyamal, Saumil and Arti Munshi would perform at Sugam Sangeet concert on March 26.
