कल्पयति येन वृत्तिं येन च लोके प्रशस्यते सद्भिः। स गुणस्तेन च गुणिना रक्ष्यः संवर्धनीयश्च॥ Transliteration kalpayati yena vṛttiṃ yena ca loke praśasyate sadbhiḥ। sa guṇastena ca guṇinā rakṣyaḥ saṃvardhanīyaśca॥
English Translation: The skill that sustains livelihood and which is praised by all should be fostered and protected for your own development.
Utkarsh: A Vibrant Celebration of Baul & Kirtan Culture and Aakhra Charcha
Nestled in the heart of the enchanting 'Rangamati' region, Utkarsh unfolded as a vibrant music festival, paying homage to the illustrious Baul tradition that this land is synonymous with. However, this time, the focus was on the future torchbearers of Baul culture - the children. There's a unique innocence and divinity that children bring, making them the perfect carriers of this rich heritage. Utkarsh not only aimed to celebrate the fading legacy of the Bauls but also to nurture the talents of these young Baul artists.
Set against a rustic backdrop, 30 young Baul singers, aged 6 to 20, graced the event, accompanied by their dedicated guardians and folk musical instruments. The panel of judges included distinguished Baul artists who added their wisdom to the festivities. Each participant received recognition and heartfelt accolades, along with biodegradable stationery and trophies courtesy of Sree Siddhashram.
The ambiance during Dol Purnima was nothing short of a vivid color palette infused with spirituality. Music filled the air, vibrant colors adorned faces, and an overwhelming sense of joy permeated the atmosphere for two unforgettable days.
Aakhra, a long-forgotten tradition, embodies the essence of wisdom passed down through generations. In the home of world-renowned singers Rina Das Baul and Dibakar Das Baul, Sree Siddhashram's mission of Sankirtan transformed into an Aakhra. The setting was quintessentially rural, with a mud house surrounded by a lush garden and a charming gazebo. The intricate 'alpana' adorning the walls held deep spiritual significance. Guests were welcomed with Dhannantari leaf tea, embracing the rich heritage. Renowned folk artists like Gautam Das Baul and other sadhaks from various gharanas graced the event with their soulful songs and engaging discussions. The emotions transcended language barriers, touching the hearts of even those from foreign lands who couldn't understand the lyrics. It was not a communication of words but a heart-to-heart connection. Visitors couldn't resist swaying to the rhythmic beats and left with their hearts brimming with emotions. The event created a cultural melting pot, with participants from Scotland, Bangladesh, Japan, and many more.
From the early morning 'Prabhati' to the break of dawn the next day, Utkarsh concluded with the joyful play of 'aabir.' During this cultural exchange, Sree Siddhashram also extended its Seva by providing stationery items to the village children and distributing chocolates to both the young and the elderly, as a sweet reminder that 'Annandam' is also a form of Seva.
In this essence of Annandam, the mission of Seva, Sadhana, and Sankirtan found fulfillment on the eve of Dol Purnima through Utkarsh and Aakhra Charcha. Sree Siddhashram continues to unite people from diverse backgrounds, imparting boundless wisdom, and reconnecting them with the rhythm of life.
