Patna: The All India Paramilitary Services Music, Dance, and Short Drama Competition 2024-25 was inaugurated in Patna in a grand ceremony under the aegis of the Bihar Secretariat Sports Foundation and the guidance of the Central Civil Services Cultural and Sports Board, Government of India.
The event, held at Urja Auditorium in Rajvanshi Nagar, commenced at 5:30 pm with Bihar Chief Secretary Amritlal Meena as the chief guest, alongside Development Commissioner Pratyaya Amrit, Art, Culture and Youth Department Secretary Pranav Kumar, and Special Secretary of Finance Department Rahul Kumar. The dignitaries were welcomed with floral bouquets before the participants took to the stage in a vibrant display of artistic talent.
The opening ceremony featured a march-past with participants from different states showcasing their cultural heritage through tableaux. Teams from Bhubaneswar, Chhattisgarh, the Central Secretariat, and Delhi- NCR were among the first to present, followed by other state contingents greeting the dignitaries and audience.
The cultural evening officially began at 6:30 pm with the traditional lighting of lamps, followed by a book release and addresses from the guests. Development Commissioner, Pratyaya Amrit, welcomed the participants, highlighting the significance of Bihar’s cultural heritage. “Bihar is the only state where both the rising and setting sun are revered. When you return to your home states, take with you the best memories of Bihar. You will serve as brand ambassadors, spreading the rich legacy of this land across the country,” he said.
Art, Culture and Youth Department Secretary Pranav Kumar also extended his greetings, acknowledging the dedication of the participants. “It is an honour to host such talented individuals who are not only excelling in their service but also contributing to the fields of art and culture. Your passion and preparation for this competition are truly commendable,” he said.
The evening continued with captivating performances by teams from Mumbai, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Gujarat, who showcased the traditional folk dances of their respective states, enthralling the audience. The competition, which celebrates artistic expression within the paramilitary services, is expected to witness a series of spectacular performances over the coming days.
