A Global Celebration of Cultural Harmony
The “International Folk Dance Festival – Culture Connects 2023,” organized by the Charu Castle Foundation, emerged as a vibrant celebration of global unity through the rich medium of dance. Held from October 18th to 21st in Noida, Uttar Pradesh, this year’s festival was elevated by the partnership of UNESCO New Delhi and supported by the Ministry of Culture (Government of India), U.P. Tourism, and CIOFF India Section.
Chairman of Charu Castle Foundation, Mr. Kapur Vir Bhan, warmly welcomed a diverse assembly of leaders, delegates, and performers representing nine nations, alongside folk artists from across India. The event commemorated the 20th Anniversary of the UNESCO Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH), echoing UNESCO’s mission of cultural preservation and mutual understanding.
In a special video message, Mr. Tim Curtis, Secretary of the ICH at UNESCO, extended congratulations to the organizers and highlighted the essential role of such festivals in building intercultural respect and societal cohesion.
The festival also featured a captivating photo exhibition, showcasing over 100 images that celebrated the global heritage of folk dance. These visuals captured the colorful essence of traditions passed down through generations.
Esteemed dignitaries graced the festival with their presence and messages, including Member of Parliament Sh. Mahesh Sharma, MLA Sh. Pankaj Singh, Principal Secretary of U.P. Tourism Sh. Mukesh Kumar Meshram (IAS), ambassadors from Romania and Kyrgyzstan, Justice R.B. Mishra (Retd.), and numerous cultural officials, educators, artists, and students.
An International Tapestry of Dance
The four-day cultural extravaganza featured mesmerizing performances by folk dance ensembles from around the globe:
- Poland: A 12-member Polish Folk Song and Dance Ensemble captivated audiences with their energetic performances and participated in enriching cultural exchanges, including visits to Delhi and Agra’s historic sites.
- Bulgaria: A 10-member delegation with a prestigious international background showcased unique traditional dances, receiving warm applause from attendees.
- Romania: Representing Babeș-Bolyai University, a 14-member group presented soulful live music and dances. The Romanian Ambassador applauded the foundation for promoting cross-cultural ties.
- Indonesia: A vibrant 18-member group enthralled the audience with tribal performances incorporating traditional instruments and props, earning high praise from embassy officials.
- Uzbekistan: A 10-member team impressed spectators with dynamic movements and elaborate costumes rooted in Uzbek tradition.
- Sri Lanka: A 13-member ensemble presented a colorful array of folk traditions, enriching the festival’s cultural palette.
- Kyrgyzstan: A 7-member group delivered spirited dances with striking choreography, making a strong impact.
- Thailand: The VRU Folk Dance Group enchanted with dazzling golden attire and graceful choreography.
- Korea: A powerful 12-member ensemble fused rhythm and ritual through intense drumming and unique art forms.
Indian Folk Traditions Take Center Stage
Complementing the international acts were enthralling performances by Indian folk groups from various states, including:
- Raas from Uttar Pradesh
- Manipuri dance from Manipur
- Lavani and Gondhal from Maharashtra
- Chhau from West Bengal
- Giddha from Punjab
- Tribal dances from Chhattisgarh
- Kumauni folk from Uttarakhand
- Rajasthani folk dance
- Dandiya from Gujarat
- Sambalpuri from Odisha
These performances brought to light the country’s vast cultural spectrum, showcasing India’s deep-rooted traditions through vivid movement and music.
A Message of Unity and Cultural Continuity
The festival, while a spectacle of dance and color, carried a deeper message of cultural preservation and transformation. Pawan Kapoor, General Secretary of the Charu Castle Foundation and National Delegate of CIOFF® India, emphasized the importance of cultural ambassadors in keeping heritage alive. “These festivals not only highlight the talent of the artists but also serve as powerful mediums for passing culture from one generation to another,” he said. He expressed heartfelt thanks to all the international and Indian groups for their invaluable contributions.
ConclusionThe 2023 edition of the International Folk Dance Festival – Culture Connects stood as a powerful reminder of how cultural expression can bridge divides and build harmony. Through music, dance, and human connection, the event succeeded in uniting people from across the globe under the shared umbrella of tradition, celebration, and respect.