Guru Shovana Narayan (Padmashri) and Dr Jyotsna Suri hosted the cultural evening of the 17th edition of the Lalit Arpan Festival of Asavari at the Stein Auditorium, India Habitat Centre, Lodi Road. Amidst the presence of eminent people and critics from the art and culture fraternity, we witnessed the awestruck performances of the nationally and internationally acclaimed artists on one platform. The event was graced by the Chief guests Dr. Kapila Vatsyayan(Chairperson IIC Asia Project) and H.E. Mr.Nadir Patel (High Commissioner of Canada).

“It was wonderful to see such a beautiful audience appreciating the classical dance and music performances of dedicated artistes such as Mrinalini, Shalluji,  Ragini, Kristina,  Aayush and Lakshay and Mithilesh Jha on both days of the LalitArpan Festival. Our classical performing arts heritage is safe in their hands”, Shovana Narayan added.

The performances were a complete amalgamation of spiritual music and dance synced with beautiful expressions and gestural movements. The productions were so mesmerising that one just can’t take their eyes off. The artists who performed were Ms Mrinalini (Kathak), Ms Shallu Jindal (Kuchipudi), Ms Ragini Madan (Kathak, London, UK), Ms. Kristina Dolonina (Vilnius, Lithuania) and duo Lakshay Mohan (Sitar duet) & Aayush Mohan (Sarod).

Lalit Arpan Festival is jointly conceptualized by Kathak maestro, Padmashri Guru Shovana Narayan, Dr Jyotsna Suri and one of the most renowned tabla players, late Ustad Shafaat Ahmed Khan. It has been presenting a feast of performances by national and international artists. Organised by the dance institution Asavari and its volunteers, this festival has till date, presented over 90 torch bearers of Indian classical performing arts.