Dilip Guha :: New Delhi : The Information and Cultural Department, West Bengal Government, in association with West Bengal Information and Cultural Centre, New Delhi, Govt of West Bengal organized the three-day Bengla Music Festival titled “Bangla Sangeet Utsav” at the prestigious Muktadhara Auditorium of Banga Sanskriti Bhavan in the Capital and commenced on Friday, April 18th, 2025.
Smt. Ujjaini Datta, IAS, Resident Commissioner, Government of West Bengal, inaugurated the festival. Other dignitaries of the West Bengal government were present on the occasion.
On the First day, the program begins with a mesmerising dance recital, titled “Barshoboron,” welcoming the Bangla New Year, presented by the renowned Shinjan group from Delhi.
Shinjan Dance Academy is a well-established organisation in Delhi NCR, and has been captivating audiences with its performances for over 15 years. The group has had the privilege of participating in several high-profile events, including the Commonwealth Games and Bharat Parv at the Red Fort. In February, Shinjan successfully performed in front of Cabinet Secretary T.V. Somnathan. This recent achievement is a testament to the group’s dedication and artistic excellence.
Smita Chakraborty leads the dance troupe, is a well-known Bharatnatyam dancer of Delhi. She is a Doordarshan Artist and is also attached to the Ministry of Culture. She regularly performs in different mega events. She also achieved an award from West Bengal Sangeet Natya Academy, recipient of appreciation from the PM House for inspiring our new generation for learning our Indian Classical dances. More than 300 students in the age group 4 years to 40 years are learning under her dance academy.
The group’s “Barshoboron” dance recital was a standout highlight of the Sangeet Utsav, exemplifying the group’s exceptional mastery of traditional dance forms. This mesmerising performance paid homage to the rich cultural heritage of Bengal, leaving the audience captivated by the vibrant energy and profound emotion conveyed through their art.
The dancers’ attire further enhanced the visual appeal of their performance. Clad in vibrant traditional costumes, they showcased the intricate artistry of Bengal’s heritage. Flowing sarees in rich hues, adorned with elegant embroidery and complemented by traditional jewelry, reflected the essence of Bengali culture. The graceful movements of the performers brought these costumes to life, transforming the stage into a celebration of color and tradition.
Adding to the magic of the event was a delightful performance by the younger members of the group. The children brought charm and innocence to the stage as they danced to upbeat Bengali folk songs, demonstrating not only their talent but also the group’s dedication to nurturing future generations of artists. Their enthusiasm and spirit captured the hearts of the audience, spreading joy and hope through their heartfelt presentation.
Their repertoire included enchanting dance presentations inspired by Bengali folk songs, the timeless melodies of Rabindranath Tagore, and the soulful compositions of Hemanta Mukherjee. Together, these elements created an unforgettable celebration of Bengal’s artistic legacy.
To mention a few, Bengal’s folk dance, performed in rural villages, accompanies the song “Lalpaharir Desh A Ja”, and another traditional dance is showcased to the tune of “Sohagg Chand Bodoni.” The performance concludes with a tribute to Pratul Mukherjee, featuring the song “Ami Banglai Gaan Gai,” which resonates deeply with the audience.
On the occasion, she remarked, “I feel deeply honoured to have received special recognition from the PMO for my efforts in inspiring the younger generation to embrace the beauty and discipline of classical music and dance. Working with my students has been an enriching journey—together, we explore traditional art forms, nurture creative expression, and preserve the cultural treasures of our heritage.”
Reflecting on her recent performance, she shared, “It’s a privilege to perform on such a prestigious stage during the Bangla Sangeet Utsav. This year, we marked the Bengali New Year, Borsho Boron, through an artistic celebration of the timeless works of Bengali legends like Rabindranath Tagore and Hemanta Mukherjee. Their creations carry the essence of hope, renewal, and artistic brilliance.”
She further emphasised, “On stage, we embrace the spirit of a new year—a time for new aspirations, fresh beginnings, and rekindled joy—by bringing Bengali traditions to life through our performances. Each act is a tribute to the cultural vibrancy of Bengal.”
The next item on the opening day of the music festival featured a captivating performance by Souro-O-Bondhura, whose seamless fusion of traditional folk and contemporary music left the audience spellbound. They beautifully encapsulated the essence of Bengali culture, with musicians displaying remarkable synergy that crafted an unforgettable experience for everyone present. The crowd responded with overwhelming applause and a standing ovation, a true testament to the deep impact of their artistry.
One of the evening’s standout moments was Saurasanta, who truly elevated the event. A former standout member of Kolkata’s legendary Kalpurush Band, he is now redefining Bangla music in North India, moving beyond its traditional roots. His powerful voice and magnetic stage presence transformed the performance into an emotional journey, prompting the audience to sing, sway, and fully immerse themselves in each note.
It was impossible not to be enchanted by the ethereal Somdutta Chowdhury. When she began her rendition of “O Je Mane Na Mana,” it felt as though time stood still. Her performance transcended the realm of a mere song; it seemed as if the music had found a home within her voice, effortlessly reaching the hearts of everyone in the crowd.
Subhashish, another standout performer, is becoming synonymous with raw, passionate, and deeply rooted music. His energy on stage was electric; it was more than just a performance; it was an outpouring of profound emotion. He pulled the audience into his storytelling, woven with rhythm, folk essence, and an unshakeable spirit. His presence radiated intensity, leaving the crowd mesmerized. Lastly, Bela Bose’s rendition of a nostalgic song truly resonated with many, adding an extraordinary layer to the evening.
The Bangla Sangeet Utsav was a celebration of the rich cultural traditions of Bengal, serving as a fitting tribute to the state’s vibrant artistic heritage. Over the next two days of the festival, there were performances by Arito Dasgupta, Trisha Parui, and Surojit Chottopadhyay, as well as Aitijhya Roy, Indranil, and Jojo Mukherjee, promising a memorable evening filled with music, dance, and cultural expression.
The West Bengal Government’s first Bangla Sangeet Utsav captivated audiences in Delhi, with the iconic Muktodhara Auditorium serving as the perfect venue for this vibrant celebration of Bengali music. The event’s ambiance is a testament to the richness of Bengali culture, with tasteful decor and the soulful sounds of music filling the air. Every aspect of the mela seems to reverberate with the spirit of celebration, honoring the region’s heritage, language, and music.
Image : Mr. Dilip Guha
