Sarabhuj

Sarabhuj, a socio-cultural institution from Rangamati, West Bengal, has been an intrinsic part of the movement for the preservation, revival, propagation and appreciation of mime and traditional folk culture.
The group consists of young artists working under the inspiring leadership of
Tarun Pradhan, and attempts to function meaningfully by adhering to the
principals, values and ideals of Indian art-aesthetics that are based on the 6
principals of Concentration, Medium, Application, Presentation, Recognition and Self-realization. Sarabhuj symbolizes the unity of all these principles and derives its strength and inspiration from the warmth and fragrance of the earth. Through its rhythm it seeks to reach out to all humanity with the message of peace and joy, tolerance and friendship.

Raibense - Raibense, derived from the word 'Raibanshe' is one of the heroic war dances of West Bengal. It is symbolic of strength, courage, heroism, and is permeated by a spirit of irresistible joy. The vigorous and manly movements of the body and the stirring notes of the drum generate courage and daring in the feeblest of hearts.
Dhali- The dhali or 'shield dance' is another folk dance that originated and
developed during the reign of Raja Pratapaditya. It is believed that after winning a grueling battle, the fatigued soldiers of the king's army began dancing with their swords in the spirit of contentment, and to prepare themselves for the next war.
The dhali dancers use cane shields and bamboo sticks; the movements are
deliberate, and formal, more in the nature of athletic exercises. The intricate
movements and ordered formation of the dance are its special characteristics.
Ranpa - The predominant characteristics of this dance form are its inherent epic and heroic qualities. In earlier days the ranpa (wooden legs), were used for different purposes like traveling, patriotic activities and even entertainment. In this folk form dancers balance themselves on bamboo sticks and dance to the notes of the drum. Although the ranpa dance can be found in other places as well, the West Bengal style has its own charm and is practiced extensively in Midnapur and Burdan districts of the state.
Pata Nach - The literal meaning of the term 'pata nach' is to make friends. In this form, dancers move together in a rhythmic manner and perform mainly in a chain or row formation with circular or semi-circular motions. The pata nach is performed during the celebrations of the 'Karam Utsav'. Unlike in earlier days, women have also started participating in the dance in recent times. Apart from these items the group will also perform the Paika and the Kathi.

Artists:
Sri Samir Mahato, Sri Sourav Middya, Sri Chandan Middya, Susanta Mahato, Ganesh Middya, Krishna Hansda, Mritunjoy Mahato, Ganesh Murmu, Debasish Hazra, Amit Lohar, Pahar Maity, Shakti Maity, Phalguni Kalindi, Kustav Bhakat, Fatik Middya, Tarun Pradhan (Group Leader)

* Programme subject to change

Venue: NSD Premises Bahawalpur House, Bhagwandas Road, ND-1
Enquiry: 011-23389054 (23389402, 23382821 Ext. 37)