Theme song of Governor’s adopted village Sonpuri released
Massive turnout of thousands on the final day
Published on: December 04, 2025
By: BTNI
Location: Khairagarh, India
The much-anticipated Khairagarh Festival 2025 concluded in a grand manner with the Hon’ble Governor and Chancellor Shri Ramen Deka gracing the closing ceremony as the Chief Guest. His arrival filled the entire programme with dignity, enthusiasm and cultural warmth.
The ceremony began with the presentation of the National Anthem and State Song, followed by lighting of the ceremonial lamp before the idol of Maa Saraswati and the oil portrait of Rajkumari Indira. Thereafter, the University Anthem was presented, followed by the official release of the theme song of Sonpuri, the Governor’s adopted village.
“Art is not merely entertainment – it makes humans sensitive”: Governor
Addressing the gathering, the Governor and Chancellor said that Indian culture is as ancient as our artistic heritage. Art is not just a medium of entertainment; it makes a human being sensitive. It awakens thoughts, emotions, compassion and tenderness within society.
He added that Chhattisgarh’s culture dates back even before the Ramayana era. Bastar’s Dussehra is the longest-celebrated Dussehra festival in the world, and the Ramayani tradition presented here is unparalleled. Khairagarh is known across India as a pilgrimage centre of art. It is also the birthplace of the great litterateur Dr. Padumlal Punnalal Bakshi and the place where he pursued early education.
The Governor emphasised that such festivals inspire the new generation to preserve and love art while offering a platform for artists to showcase their talent.
Presiding over the programme, Vice-Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Loveli Sharma said that the festival greatly enhanced the knowledge of students and research scholars. The stage witnessed various classical, folk music and literary performances aligned with the University curriculum. She added that the people of Khairagarh town and nearby rural areas have a natural affinity towards fine arts. She expressed hope for filling vacant posts and creating additional positions in the University soon, along with seeking support to bring the University onto the central (national) platform.
Raipur MP Shri Brijmohan Agrawal, attending as Guest of Honour, said that Indira Kala Sangeet Vishwavidyalaya is a globally renowned institution. Music is not just entertainment; only music can bring true satisfaction to the mind, intellect, body and soul. He added that with excellence in costume and stage performance, artists here can shine not only in India but on international platforms.
MLA Yashoda Verma, attending as Special Guest, recalled the great personalities who donated their royal palace for establishing the University. She said this is not just an abode of arts but a confluence of the seven notes, attracting artists not only from Chhattisgarh but from across the country and abroad.
Governor visits Art Gallery and Exhibition Stalls
Before the start of the main programme, the Governor and Chancellor visited the University Art Gallery along with other dignitaries. He also inspected the stalls put up by students and appreciated their work and efforts.
Dance Faculty captivates audience
The closing programme commenced in the evening with highly refined performances by students of the Dance Faculty. The Kathak Tarana, Bharatanatyam presentations Shivoham and Raga Hindolam, and the mesmerising Odissi performance won loud applause from the packed audience.
Sarod recital by Ustad Siraj Ali enchants the auditorium
The next segment was a treat for music lovers. The soulful and spiritually uplifting Sarod recital by renowned Sarod maestro Ustad Siraj Ali Khan from Kolkata, accompanied by Tabla, left the audience spellbound. The hall echoed with prolonged applause after the performance, prompting the maestro to graciously play an encore.
Benaras Gharana echoes in the Tabla recital of Pt. Sanju Sahai
Following the Sarod recital, Pt. Sanju Sahai presented a dynamic Tabla solo showcasing the brilliance of the Benaras Gharana. From the powerful opening to the Banarasi Theka and the electrifying Jhala, his performance kept the audience applauding throughout. Impressed by his artistry, the Vice-Chancellor invited him to visit the University every year subject to availability.
Kathak by Vidushi Shama Bhate steals the show
The star attraction of the closing event was the enthralling Kathak performance by eminent dancer Vidushi Shama Bhate and her troupe from Pune. Depicting episodes from the Ramayana — including Sita Swayamvar, Kevat Prasang, Sita Haran, Ashok Vatika, Lanka Dahan and Yuddh — the performance received repeated standing applause from the audience.
Folk music brings the fragrance of Chhattisgarh to the festival
The final segment featured a lively and melodious folk music performance by Rajnandgaon’s celebrated folk singer Smt. Kavita Wasnik and her group. Their soulful Chhattisgarhi folk songs, accompanied by dholak and mandar, filled the venue with the festive hues of rural culture. Songs like Pata Leja Re, Tola Dekhe Raho Ga, and Aabe Ki Nahi Bata De Mola drew thunderous applause and enthusiastic participation from the audience.
The crowd’s excitement grew so much that the programme was extended further, with many spectators dancing joyfully along with the artists, creating a vibrant and emotional finale filled with cultural warmth and togetherness.
Also read- https://www.btnewsindia.com/new-principal-y-r-sahu-takes-charge-at-surgi-higher-secondary-school/ https://www.btnewsindia.com/rajnandgaon-administration-strengthens-maternal-care-under-pradhan-mantri-surakshit-matritva-abhiyan/
