Patna: Preparations for the upcoming Bihar Diwas celebrations are underway at Gandhi Maidan in Patna, with officials instructed to meet strict deadlines as the state plans a three-day programme showcasing culture, education and performance.
Dinesh Kumar, secretary of the education department, visited the venue on Tuesday to review arrangements, directing officials to complete all work within the stipulated timeframe and maintain high standards to ensure the event is conducted smoothly.
This year’s Bihar Diwas, themed “Unnat Bihar, Ujjwal Bihar” (Advanced Bihar, Bright Bihar), will feature a series of cultural programmes across multiple venues in the city from March 22 to 24, with performances by artists from across India.
At Gandhi Maidan, singer Sona Mohapatra is scheduled to perform on March 22, followed by Shaan on March 23 and Papon on March 24.
Parallel events will take place at Shri Krishna Memorial Hall and Rabindra Bhawan. Classical vocalist Pandit Jagat Narayan Pathak will present a Dhrupad recital, while dance performances blending contemporary and Odissi styles will be staged by Raminder Khurana and Prachi Pallavi Sahoo. Folk music and theatre will also feature prominently, including a staging of Gabarghichor, a noted work by Bhikhari Thakur.
On March 23, a dance-drama titled Buddhacharita will be performed, alongside a humour-based poetry gathering led by Surendra Sharma. The final day will include Bharatanatyam by Dr N Vijayalakshmi, folk performances by Chandan Tiwari, and a ghazal and mushaira session curated by Alok Raj.
In addition to stage performances, the cultural pavilion at Gandhi Maidan will host daily programmes by local artists and street theatre groups. Educational exhibitions, a book fair and a food festival will be organised within the education pavilion, while the tourism department plans to showcase Bihar’s cultural heritage. Stalls from various government departments will also be set up.
Officials said the education department is finalising arrangements to ensure a seamless experience for visitors, as the state aims to make Bihar Diwas 2026 a landmark public event.
