New Delhi: Connaught Place’s Central Park has become a vibrant hub of cultural celebration with the four-day festival ‘Jashn-e-Urdu’ (October 17-20, 2024), organized by the Urdu Academy of Delhi under the Department of Art, Culture, and Languages, Government of Delhi.
The festival, dedicated to the elegance and beauty of Urdu, entered its second day, captivating audiences with diverse performances that highlighted the essence of Urdu’s rich literary and cultural traditions. Artists from across the country came together, enchanting the audience with their mesmerizing talents.
The day kicked off with a storytelling session presented by children from the ‘Talent Group.’ Their performance conveyed a powerful social message, addressing how technology, particularly mobile phones, is pulling children away from traditional values. The lively session was thoroughly enjoyed by the audience.
Next, artists from the ‘Jamia Group’ enthralled the audience with a beautiful performance titled ‘Ghalib with Modern Poets,’ blending classical and contemporary poetry. The crowd appreciated this unique fusion of poetic traditions.
One of the highlights of the day was the spellbinding ‘Dastan-e-Dilli Walon Ki,’ performed by renowned Dastangoi artists Masood Hashmi and Anas Faizi, bringing to life the captivating tales of Old Delhi.
From Mumbai, the renowned ghazal singer Jazim Sharma graced the stage, delivering a soulful performance that paid homage to traditional ghazal styles while adding his signature touch. The audience was visibly moved by his renditions of some of the most cherished ghazals. Following him, Bhopal’s ‘Rang Band’ took the stage with their fusion of Sufi music, compelling the crowd to sway to the rhythm of their mystical tunes.
The day culminated with a stunning performance by the famous ghazal singer Pooja Gaitonde, whose melodious voice turned the evening into a magical affair. The audience, gathered in large numbers, savored each moment of the captivating performances.
Vice Chairman of the Urdu Academy, Professor Shehpar Rasool, and Senior Accountant Kulbhushan Arora honored all the performers with mementos and bouquets. Addressing the audience, Professor Rasool expressed the Academy’s commitment to promoting the Ganga-Jamuni tehzeeb (composite culture) and encouraging people to experience the beauty of Urdu language and literature through such events.
In addition to the performances, the festival also featured a crafts and calligraphy exhibition, along with a book fair. Several notable participants included National Book Trust, Rekhta Publications, Art Palace, Asia Kitab House, National Council for the Promotion of Urdu Language, and many others, offering a wide range of handicrafts, calligraphy, and literary works for visitors to explore.
The second day of ‘Jashn-e-Urdu’ not only celebrated the artistic heritage of Urdu but also offered a space for people to come together and revel in its timeless charm. The event continues to attract large crowds, with attendees enjoying the blend of traditional and modern art forms.
