AMRITSAR: In a rare show of inter-cultural display of music and dance, the Bulgarian and Punjabi artists joined stage during the 11th Amritsar International Folk Festival at Khalsa College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences here. The magical glimpses of the musical fusion of Bulgaria and Punjabi folklore were witnessed as the folk artists from two countries India and Bulgaria took the stage to storm.
The dance troupe from Bulgaria first mesmerized the audience with their captivating performances after they were welcomed in the traditional style. The artists led by Alex Alexandrov and his 12 members team under ‘Folkpalitra Bulgaria’ presented the European country’s folk singing and dancing. The festival was organized by Khalsa College Governing Council in collaboration with Punjab Cultural Promotion Council (PCPC).
Clad in their traditional, colorful dresses, the artists took to the stage with full enthusiasm and won the heart with the foot-tapping dances and melodious singing of their native place. Apart from the music, the theatrical presentation by Bulgarian artists touched the nerves as they gave folk presentations in traditional styles. They later intermingled with the students and performed Punjabi folklore together. The KCVAS students also exhibited Bhangra and Gidda and Khalsa School Gatka during the festival.
The Chief Guest at the occasion Khalsa College Governing Council honorary secretary Rajinder Mohan Singh Chhina who earlier welcomed the guest artists said the festival was an opportunity for the students of two countries’ to forge international cooperation and friendship. He said the aim of the festival is to foster cultural exchanges and integration of diversities.
College Principal Dr. Harisah Verma said that such inter-cultural festivals provide opportunity for students to share talent and understand each other’s folklore. He earlier welcomed the guests and artists saying that they were proud to host the festival.
PCPC head Dr. Davinder Singh Chhina said that the objective of the festival is to promote multiculturalism and international cooperation through the exchange of artists. He said the motto this time was ‘Beyond the Horizons, Across the Border’ and was dedicated to the 131 years old heritage of the Khalsa College. He said they also honoured the alumni and those who have contributed to highlight the rich heritage of the College.
Dr.Chhina said the team would be in Punjab for one week and performing at various stages throughout the Northern India.
Alex said they were enthralled to watch the Punjabi music and dances and he has come to Punjab after the gap of 15 years and had been cherishing to see the rich cultural heritage of the city.
During the festival Khalsa Heritage Award were given to famous Punjabi film and music personality Karaj Gill, Dr. Karamjit Singh Gill, Joga Singh, Ravinder Singh Robin, Sukhjinder Singh Heir, Baba Nirmal Singh and others. Three special awards were given to Dr.Inderjit Singh Gagoani, Gurpreet Singh Gill and Coach Baljinder Singh.
Bhupinder Singh Holland, Daljit Singh Sandhu and Gurinder Singh Mehrok, Harpreet Singh Bhatti Principals of Khalsa institutions were present.