Correspondent, Almora
Almora.
The much-awaited Kumaon Festival brought a fresh wave of celebration to the town on Saturday evening, blending culture, music, and dance in an unforgettable symphony. Renowned Kumaoni singer Inder Arya mesmerized the audience with his magical voice, making everyone sway to the rhythm of his soulful and energetic folk songs that resonated deeply with both the young and old.
As soon as Arya took the stage, the atmosphere turned electric. The crowd responded with thunderous applause and a sea of glowing mobile flashlights. His performances of popular hits like “Jara Maathu Maathu Hit”, “Ram Dai Ka Hotel”, and “Bol Heera Bol” had the entire venue dancing and clapping in joy. Arya’s sweet melodies beautifully captured the essence of Kumaoni culture, turning the evening into a celebration of regional heritage.
Adding grace and energy to the event were talented dancers Palak Tiwari and Sanchi Verma from Almora. Dressed in traditional Kumaoni attire, their captivating dance performances enhanced the musical mood and left the audience spellbound. Their flawless synchronization, expressive gestures, and elegant movements showcased the richness of Kumaoni folk dance traditions. When they performed alongside Arya’s live singing, the hall reverberated with applause and admiration.
The festival’s smooth execution was a result of the dedicated efforts of the organizing committee. Dignitaries and cultural enthusiasts in attendance included Rajendra Tiwari, Harish Kanwal, Dr. Santosh Bisht, Murad Khan, Amarnath Negi, Jagdish Verma, Harshita Tiwari, Shagun Tyagi, youth councilor Vaibhav Pandey, student union vice-president Yuvam Vohra, and councilor Abhishek Joshi, among others.
Organizers stated that the festival aims to preserve and promote Kumaon’s cultural legacy and provide a platform for local artists. They added that the coming days would feature more vibrant programs, including traditional folk songs, street plays, and handicraft exhibitions.
The Kumaon Festival is fast becoming a cultural hallmark of Almora, reaffirming that the spirit of folk traditions continues to live on in the hearts of the people.
