Civil Servants Trade Files for Footlights in Patna Cultural Fest

Patna: The Urja Auditorium in Rajvanshi Nagar, Patna, witnessed a vibrant display of theatrical talent on the third day of the ‘All India Civil Services Music, Dance and Short Drama Competition 2024-25’. Organized by the Bihar Secretariat Sports Foundation under the aegis of the Central Civil Services Cultural and Sports Board, Government of India, the event showcased the artistic prowess of government officials from across the nation.

Stage directors Ladli Roy and Jaya Agarwal announced a captivating lineup of five plays, each offering a unique perspective and narrative.

The day commenced with ‘Kaam Ka Na Kaaj Ka Tamasha Moocher Raj Ka’, a thought-provoking play exploring the societal dynamics between the common people and the bureaucratic system. The narrative highlighted the struggle of the poor class and the often-unequal distribution of resources.

Following this was ‘Humare Ram’, presented by the Himachal Pradesh Secretariat. Based on the Kamban Ramayana, this Telugu-language play, dramatized by Ashutosh Ranaji, offered a fresh perspective on the story of Shurpanakha’s revenge against Ravana.

The Maharashtra Secretariat presented ‘The Common Man’, a poignant portrayal of an ordinary family’s daily struggles and resilience. The play resonated with the audience, showcasing the universal experience of facing challenges with patience and hope.

RSB Kanpur’s ‘Taj Mahal Ka Tender’ provided a humorous take on modern bureaucratic processes. The play imagined Emperor Shah Jahan navigating the complexities of tendering for the Taj Mahal’s construction in contemporary times, eliciting laughter and reflection from the audience.

Throughout the event, the audience, including the judges, was thoroughly entertained. The performances were met with enthusiastic applause, laughter, and contemplation. The audience’s desire for selfies with the artists after each play underscored the event’s success and popularity.

The competition, featuring 18 teams and approximately 750 participants from various states, stands out for its unique blend of official duty and artistic expression. All participants are government officials, showcasing their talents in music, dance, and drama. The event has provided a refreshing and diverse cultural experience for the people of Patna.