MATHURA: A grand 10-day festival, the ‘Brajraj Utsav’, is live at the Dhuli Pyau Railway Ground in Mathura, bringing with it a wave of vibrant cultural performances. Aptly named “Kalaa Ki Deepawali” (Diwali of the Arts), the event promises to be a grand celebration of Braj culture and tradition, with performances and exhibits reflecting the region’s rich artistic heritage. The Brajraj Utsav will be held from November 5 at the Dhuli Pyau Railway Ground in Mathura.
Entry is free for all, and visitors are encouraged to explore the various stalls and exhibits, as well as enjoy the performances throughout the day. The event is open from 10 AM to 10 PM daily, with the main performances scheduled for the evening.
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At the heart of this year’s Utsav is the timeless story of Bhagwan Ram, presented through an elaborate, multi-dimensional theatrical production. The performance, based on the life of Bhagwan Ram and his victory over evil as depicted in the Ramayana, aims to captivate audiences with its artistic grandeur. The chief guest of the event, internationally acclaimed Padma Shri awardee and eminent Ramlila performer Arun Govil, who famously portrayed Lord Rama in the classic television series, is expected to draw a large crowd.
One of the highlights of this year’s Brajraj Utsav is the participation of more than 250 local artists from the Braj region. These artists are gearing up to showcase the rich cultural traditions of Braj, keeping alive a myriad of local art forms through performances, handicrafts, and exhibitions. The festival organisers have specifically curated multiple segments throughout the day. This will allow the artists to showcase their talents at designated times. This helps ensure that visitors to the festival can witness different aspects of Braj’s artistic and cultural identity.
From traditional folk dances to intricate music performances, the festival is set to offer a unique and authentic glimpse into the soul of Braj. The performances will reflect the historical and spiritual significance of Mathura, Vrindavan, and surrounding areas, which have long been associated with Lord Krishna and his stories from the Bhagavad Gita.
A centerpiece of the festival is the magnificent production of Bhagwan Ram’s life, which will take place at the festival’s main venue. This theatrical presentation will recount pivotal moments from the Ramayana, from Lord Rama’s exile to his victory over the demon king Ravana. The event organisers have ensured that the production will be rich in visual appeal, featuring elaborate sets, costumes, and live performances.
The Utsav has been coined “Kalaa Ki Deepawali” in recognition of the event’s focus on the arts. By bringing together traditional and contemporary expressions of Braj culture, the festival aims to enhance the Deepawali festivities in Mathura, offering a new dimension to the celebration of the festival of lights.
In addition to traditional dance and music performances, the festival will also feature:
Art Exhibitions: Displaying the craftsmanship of local artisans, including pottery, painting, and textiles.
Workshops: Interactive sessions where visitors can learn about Braj art forms and try their hand at traditional crafts.
Folk Performances: Storytelling sessions and folk theater, exploring tales from Hindu mythology and Braj folklore.
In a bid to boost local participation, the organisers have collaborated with artists’ unions and cultural associations from Mathura and Vrindavan to ensure that the region’s finest talents are represented. According to festival spokespersons, the goal of this initiative is to provide a wider audience for these local artists, enabling them to demonstrate their skills to visitors from across the country and potentially beyond.
Beyond the artistic performances, the Utsav is also a reflection of the deeply spiritual roots of the Braj region. Mathura and Vrindavan, known for their association with Lord Krishna, are considered among the holiest places in Hinduism.
Festival goers will also have the opportunity to participate in daily pujas and aartis, paying tribute to the deities of Braj. Special arrangements have been made for evening prayers and rituals, including a grand Deepawali puja, symbolising the victory of light over darkness.
The Brajraj Utsav will culminate in a grand finale on the last day of the festival. The closing ceremony will feature a larger-than-life performance, re-enacting Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya after his victory over Ravana. This event will be followed by a spectacular fireworks display, signifying the end of the festival and a fitting tribute to the spirit of Deepawali.
As the festival draws to a close, organisers are expecting a huge turnout, with visitors from nearby cities and towns eager to witness the grand spectacle. According to the organising committee, strict security measures will be in place, and efforts have been made to ensure that the festival is eco-friendly and sustainable.
In recent years, the Brajraj Utsav has become a major attraction during Deepawali in Mathura. This year’s festival, with its focus on both traditional arts and modern cultural expressions, is set to be a testament to the enduring spirit of Braj. By blending ancient customs with contemporary creativity, the event aims to offer something for everyone, young and old, locals and tourists alike.
This 10-day event promises to be a vibrant and immersive experience, celebrating the best of Braj’s cultural and spiritual heritage. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the Brajraj Utsav offers a unique opportunity to experience the true essence of Deepawali in one of India’s most revered cultural hubs.
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