Last weekend though extremely busy, was thoroughly entertaining on two different levels. The first mega event was participating in "Sarvajanik Ganesh Utsav" and the second was attending a distinctive program called "Aayushyawar Bolu Kahi".
Sarvajanik Ganesh Utsav was organized by local Maharashtra Mandal. As I am one of the committee members, I had the privilege of being involved from start to finish. The day started off with Ganesh Murti procession from the temple to the main cultural hall. Team of enthusiasts (yours truly included) danced to the funky beats of lezim all through the procession. When Ganpati Bappa was safely housed, all the pertinent religious rituals took place. After a sumptuous lunch, there were cultural programs organized for the members/devotees. Kids did their parents proud by singing, dancing and performing their way into the hearts of the people. Cricket fans were treated to an interactive cricket quiz, whereas baby Einsteins' (kids, K-5 grade) were treated to brain storming science quiz. Poetry lovers spent the pleasant afternoon listening to poems, whereas the rest of us put on their dancing shoes once again for the immersion journey of Ganpati Bappa. It was hard not to be pleased when there was something for everyone in this action packed day. In the end, I felt grateful for the chance of contributing in one of the adored traditions of
The next day we were treated to a private concert of Marathi poetry singing program called Aayushyawar Bolu Kahi by the illustrious duo Sandeep Khare and Salil Kulkarni. The program was, to say the least, clean and refreshing - like a breath of cool air. I went in there with no background, no prior reviews and no expectations. When I saw two simply dressed youths with a pleasing persona, I was a little skeptical initially. But when they started performing, they demanded the audience's attention, awe and appreciation. Some of the poems were truly simple, elegant and moving. The rendition of the poetic songs as well as the tongue in cheek emceeing struck a right chord with the audience. My husband and I came back home truly impressed.
And thus, we spent amazing two days amidst culture (Sanskruti) and performing arts (Kala). We were physically and emotionally spent at the end, but it was well worth it!
1 comment:
Betu,
In your first activity I thought we missed a gala celebration and in second , i wished , we would have been in first row to give adieu to performers.
In short, you guys are keeping the Indian tradition at the helm of affairs even at a place thousands of miles away from here.
Excellent job !
Papa
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