The third and final edition of the Rashtriya Sanskriti Mahotsav 2021 in West Bengal organized by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India began on 27^th February 2021 at Murshidabad, West Bengal. Directors of all the zonal cultural centres of the Ministry of Culture were present during the inauguration of the Mahotsav and lit the ceremonial lamp . The Mahotsav in Murshidabad will run for two days, 27–28 February 2021.

The Mahotsav started with colourful performances by the local artists, which included ‘Baul Gaan’, ‘Alkup Gaan’, ‘Leto gaan’, ‘Jhumuriya’ and Ranpa folk dances. All guests present at the festival and the general audience, were spell – bound by the exemplary performance by the local artists.

The well-known folk band Surojit O Bondhura gave a touching performance. The violin brothers band compelled the audience to dance on their tunes. Mamata Shankar's ballet dance performance was the main attraction of the programme.

Besides the performances of the artists, 70 stalls of handicrafts, paintings, embroidery, and jute crafts etc. also attracted the people.

Rashtriya Sanskriti Mahotsav, the flagship festival of Culture Ministry has been organized since 2015 with the active participation of Seven Zonal Culture Centres and has been playing a pivotal role to take the vibrant culture of India out to the masses instead of confining to auditoria and galleries. It has been instrumental in showcasing, folk and tribal art, dance, music, cuisines & culture of one state in other states reinforcing the cherished goal of “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat” and at the same time providing an effective platform to the artists and artisans to support their livelihood. Earlier Rashtriya Sanskritik Mahotsavs have been held till date since November, 2015 in various states and cities such as Delhi, Varanasi, Bengaluru, Tawang, Gujarat, Karnataka, Tehri and Madhya Pradesh.

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NB/SK