CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: “Hori Ho Brajraj” Brings Alive the Vibrant Spirit of Braj Holi
Under the luminous full moon of Phagun, as the colors of love flourished in the air, the City of Lakes and Hills came alive in a rhythmic celebration. With Rang Panchami approaching, this mesmerizing scene was further enriched by Krishna, who, surrounded by his beloved Radha and the Gopis, transformed the gathering of Holi revelers into a breathtaking spectacle. The air resonated with the soul-stirring melody:
“Yamuna Tat Shyam Khelat Hori…”
This enchanting performance was a tribute to the traditional Holi songs of Braj and Mainpuri, deeply rooted in folklore for centuries. The renowned dancer Kshama Malviya, along with a troupe of over 75 artists from Puru Kathak Academy, orchestrated a visual and rhythmic masterpiece. This initiative, brought to life under the artistic vision of Santosh Choubey, the creator of the ‘Vishwarang’ Cultural Festival, became an unforgettable spectacle. The charismatic voice of art critic and presenter Vinay Upadhyay further amplified the experience, while Anup Joshi Bunty’s lighting design added to its grandeur. Dr. Aditi Chaturvedi Vats meticulously curated every aspect of this cultural festivity.
Presented at the open-air stage of the Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya, this mesmerizing “Hori Ho Brajraj” evening, supported by the Tagore Centre for Art & Culture, will remain etched in the hearts of the audience as a sweet, intoxicating memory. In a symphony of music and dance, “Hori Ho Brajraj” became a beautiful testament to love and harmony. The soulful musical arrangement by Santosh Kaushik and Raju Rao breathed life into these timeless songs.
For over 75 minutes, the magic unfolded with the opening song:
“Chalo Sakhi Jamuna Pe, Machi Aaj Hori…”
Krishna, Radha, and the Gopas of Gokul drenched in colors and playful teasing, set the festive tone. The spirited energy of Phagun carried forward with Holi songs, culminating in the deeply immersive and affectionate melody:
“Aaj Mohe Rang Mein Boro Ri…”
The echoes of age-old Dwapar-era Holi traditions continued to enchant the capital’s art lovers and connoisseurs.
With the earthy aroma of folk tunes and the melodic richness of classical raagas, this artistic expression turned Holi into an immersive experience. The collective efforts of Vishwarang, Vanmali Srijan Peeth, AISECT, and RNTU gave birth to this exquisite presentation. “Hori Ho Brajraj” is a soulful and intoxicating blend of tradition and festivity, evoking deep emotions and nostalgia.
A Celebration of Folk and Classical Fusion
This colorful production seamlessly blended raw folk music with rhythmic precision, accompanied by classical ragas intertwined with traditional instruments. An added attraction of the event was a visual art exhibition curated by Prashant Soni. The evening also witnessed the launch of the book “Hori Ho Brajraj” and the special edition of the AISECT Publication’s World Book Fair Bulletin.
The event was graced by eminent personalities, including:
Dr. Amitabh Pandey, Director, Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya
Santosh Choubey, Chancellor, Rabindranath Tagore University
Siddharth Chaturvedi, Chancellor, Scope Global Skill University
Pallavi Chaturvedi, Nitin Vats, Dr. Aditi Chaturvedi Vats, and Sangeeta Johri, RNTU Registrar
Mukesh Verma, President, Vanmali Srijan Peeth
Distinguished academicians, cultural figures, and AISECT Group & Tagore University officials.
A Reflection of India’s Festive Tradition
For over two to three years, the team from AISECT Studio meticulously explored the villages and streets of Braj, collecting authentic folk songs in their original tunes. This extensive research unearthed hundreds of Holi songs, forming an invaluable archive of India’s rich cultural and festive traditions.
“‘Hori Ho Brajraj’ is a soulful and intoxicating expression of tradition, evoking profound emotions. It blends the open-hearted sweetness of folk music with the structured elegance of classical rhythms, creating an extraordinary sensory delight.”
– Vinay Upadhyay, Director, Tagore Arts Centre
Timeless Holi Songs That Echoed Through the Night
Yamuna Tat Shyam Khelat Hori…
Barjori Karen Rang Dari…
Bahut Dinan Son Roothe Shyam…
Main To Tohi Ko Na Chhodoongi…
Aaj Mohe Rang Mein Boro Ri…
Nita Nai Dhoom Machayo Kanha, Holi Ke Dinnon Mein…
Mohan Pe Rang Daro, Chalo Holi Aayi…
Mat Maro Drigan Ki Chot…
Main Paanihara Na Jaiyo, Aage Mach Rahyo Fag…
Dagar Bich Kaise Chalu, Bhaag Roke Kanhaiya…
With a perfect blend of folk exuberance and classical finesse, this cultural masterpiece revived the eternal charm of Holi in Braj, leaving behind an indelible imprint of color, music, and celebration.
#HoriHoBrajraj #BrajHoli #FaguFestival #IndianCulture #HoliCelebration #BrajRang #FestiveSpirit
