National Folk Theatre Festival begins at SPPU

Speaking at the inauguration, Dr. Gosavi emphasized the significance of folk theatre in India’s cultural landscape. He said that folk theatre is a reflection of society and heritage, and through this festival, the university aims to bring these vibrant art forms to a larger audience and inspire young artists to engage with them. Actress Jaymala Inamdar highlighted the role of folk performances in keeping oral traditions alive, while Vasantrao Avasarikar reminisced about the golden era of folk theatre.

The opening performances set the tone for the festival, with Dashavatar by Balkrishna Gore Dashavatar Mandal and Jaipuri Khayal by Saurabh Bhat from Jaipur captivating the audience. The auditorium was packed with theatre enthusiasts, students, and cultural scholars, all eager to witness the rich storytelling and musical elements of these traditional art forms.

Hemant Mehta, program executive from WZCC, spoke about the importance of such festivals in reviving and sustaining folk traditions. “Folk theatre is not just entertainment; it is a vital part of our cultural history that carries deep social messages. This festival provides a much-needed platform for folk artists to showcase their craft and ensure these traditions continue for future generations,” he said.

Over the next two days, the festival will feature performances such as Lalit, Tura Kalangi, Kuchamani Khayal, and the Dholki Phad Tamasha. In addition to stage performances, panel discussions on Religious and Devotional Folk Theatre and Entertainment-Centric Folk Theatre will see eminent scholars sharing their insights on the evolution and relevance of these art forms.

The festival, open to all, has already drawn a positive response from students and art lovers. Prof. Dr. Pravin Bhole encouraged the public to attend and experience the depth and vibrancy of India’s folk theatre traditions. The event will continue until March 23.