Patna: Patna’s Lok Bhavan turned into a stage for classical storytelling on Sunday as a Kathak performance titled I Am Bihar formed the centrepiece of Bihar’s 77th Republic Day cultural celebrations. Organised by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), Patna, in collaboration with Lok Bhavan, the event brought together art, history and identity in a dance production led by noted Kathak exponent Swati Sinha.
The programme was inaugurated by the governor of Bihar, Arif Mohammad Khan and attended by nearly 500 guests, including senior government officials, political leaders and members of the cultural community. The gathering reflected both the ceremonial importance of Republic Day and the growing emphasis on using the arts to interpret regional and national identity.
Performed by an eight-member troupe, the dance-cum-musical production narrated Bihar’s civilisational journey through the classical language of Kathak. Through expressive footwork and choreography, the artists evoked the rivers Ganga, Son and Gandak as symbols of continuity and memory. The performance moved between references to ancient centres of learning such as Nalanda and Vikramshila, the hardships of migration and struggle, and the state’s contribution to India’s freedom movement, before closing with a hopeful vision of Bihar’s future anchored in its heritage.
Sinha, originally from Patna and now based in Delhi, trained under Kathak guru Pt Rajendra Gangani and brings more than two decades of experience to the stage. An ‘A’ grade artist with Doordarshan, she has performed widely in India and abroad, with international tours supported by ICCR aimed at promoting Indian classical dance as a form of cultural diplomacy. Alongside performing, she conducts workshops and outreach programmes to mentor younger dancers.
Her visit to Bihar also includes a workshop at Kilkari Bal Bhavan and additional performances scheduled at Bapu Tower and Nalanda University over the following days. ICCR officials said the events are part of ongoing efforts to provide platforms for local and national artists while fostering cultural exchange.
The evening concluded with a folk music performance by singer Neetu Kumari Nootan, adding a regional musical note to the celebrations. Together, the performances underscored the role of the arts in marking Republic Day — not only as a national holiday but as a moment to reflect on Bihar’s cultural legacy and its place in India’s evolving story.
