Civil Services Music, Dance and Drama Competition in Patna Enters Day 4, Celebrating India’s Cultural Diversity

Patna: The Urja Auditorium in Rajvanshi Nagar here resonated with the vibrant sounds and sights of India’s diverse cultural heritage on the fourth 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 (CCSCSB), Government of India, the event showcased the artistic talents of civil servants from across the nation.

Ladli Roy and Jaya Agarwal skillfully conducted the day’s proceedings, which featured competitions across four distinct categories.

The day commenced with the soulful melodies of Karnataka Classical Vocal, where six participants captivated the audience with their renditions, primarily focusing on devotional themes celebrating Lord Shiva and Vishnu’s incarnations. The 10-minute performances were met with rapturous applause, as the audience was immersed in the evocative power of the music.

Next, the stage was set for Karnataka Light Classical Vocal, featuring seven participants who, within a five-minute time frame, presented a diverse range of devotional compositions.

The Folk Song Solo category proved to be a highlight of the day, with 20 participants delivering powerful performances that explored themes of social conflict, collective aspirations, local struggles, historical events, and regional identities. Notably, Garima from Delhi delivered a poignant folk song depicting women’s participation in the non-cooperation movement.

The grand finale of the day was the Folk Song Group competition, where 17 groups from various states transformed the auditorium into a microcosm of India. Artists adorned in traditional attire presented a captivating spectacle of regional music and culture, eliciting thunderous applause from the audience.

Pradeep Kumar Khanna, Convener of Cultural Activity, CCSCSB, Department of Personnel and Training (DOPT), expressed his satisfaction with the event’s progress. “The program is moving towards its set goal, organized successfully in line with the initial concept,” he stated. He also highlighted the meticulous arrangements, including food and accommodation, ensuring a comfortable experience for participants. “People coming from outside are very happy here and they are getting a new experience,” he added, expressing optimism for the program’s continued success.

The competition, a testament to the cultural richness of India’s civil service, continues to provide a platform for artistic expression and cultural exchange, leaving a lasting impression on participants and attendees alike.