Patna: A vibrant cultural evening organized by the Department of Art, Culture, and Youth, Bihar, at Bharatiya Nritya Kala Mandir on Sunday showcased captivating performances by renowned artists. Dr. N. Vijayalakshmi, Principal Secretary of the Animal and Fisheries Resources Department and a celebrated Bharatnatyam dancer, performed along with Rajneesh Kumar, an acclaimed Indian classical music singer.
The event was inaugurated by retired Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer Dr. Vijay Prakash, former Chief Secretary and current Chairman of Bihar Electricity Regulatory Commission Amir Subhani, former Chief Secretary and current Chief Information Commissioner of Bihar Brajesh Mehrotra, Additional Chief Secretary of the Education Department Dr. S. Siddharth, Dr. N. Vijayalakshmi, Secretary of the Art, Culture, and Youth Department Dayanidhan Pandey, senior litterateur Mamta Mehrotra, Mridula Prakash, Rajneesh Kumar, and other dignitaries who together lit the ceremonial lamp.
Dr. Vijayalakshmi opened her Bharatanatyam recital with the Ganesh Vandana, a piece by Tulsidas featuring the lyrics “Gaaye Ganpati Gajabandhan Shankar Suvan Bhavani Ke Nandan.” Her performance continued with “Mahishasuramardini ‘Ae Giri Nandini,” composed by Shankaracharya, and concluded with the “Mahalakshmi Stotra,” each piece receiving appreciation from the audience.
Rajneesh Kumar then presented his classical performance, offering renditions in Raga Yaman, including both Bada Khayal and Chota Khayal, followed by Thumri pieces, “Nadan jiyara gum gayo re” and “Rang rangeeli rasili chhavi brijnar ki.” Accompanying artists included Dr. Shyam Mohan on tabla, Sudhir Kumar on harmonium, and Arthav Manas and Hemant Kumar on tanpura, adding depth to the evening’s musical experience.
Approximately 400 attendees enjoyed the event, including cultural work director Ruby, deputy secretary Anil Kumar Sinha, administrative officer of Bharatiya Nritya Kala Mandir Sushant Kumar, along with music enthusiasts, artists, and officials from the Art, Culture, and Youth Department. The program was gracefully hosted by Soma Chakraborty.
