In Pics: Singara Sammelana, Singapore - Day 1

The audience enjoyed the other treats in the event - savouries during lunch, snack and dinner times; and the Lucky draws.

Singapore, Oct 30: Singara Kannada Samskriti Sammelana Day One began with a grand spectacle in Singapore.

The event set off with a harmonious prayer to Lord Ganesha by an enthusiastic group of children mentored by Ms Shruthi Anand.

Following the prayer, Mr Vijay Ranga Prasad, President of Kannada Sangha extended a warm welcome to the participants and the audience. He declared the opening of the event.

Programme went on to recognise achievements of Singannadigas with Puraskaras. Singara Sinchana Puraskara for winners of literary competition was awarded.

Prof Krishna Gowda presented the audience with a heartwarming speech about the importance of language and culture. His forte is to introduce suitable humour to exemplify his message - Kannada is not just a language but a power centre.

The audience didn't blink an eye throughout the Ocean Kids rendezvous. Their immaculate portrayal of the victory of Durga as she takes the form of Bhadrakali and defeats Raktabija was an enthralling experience.

Swaramrita troop entertained the audience with their charismatic music performance. Their fusion was a blend of Classical Hindustani and Carnatic styles presenting in the form of a light music. With an aim to introduce classical music to the common man they successfully engaged the audience with their relatable sense of humour.

The group song - a song for Singannadigas composed for this event led by Dr Bhagya Murthy evoked a sense of patriotism and pride. As our own local singers took control of the stage, the atmosphere of the auditorium rang with exuberance. The theme of pioneers pulling the Kannada Chariot over the last few decades and turning it over to the next generation was enacted very well on the stage.

The highlight of the day was the folk parade, again a blend of Kannada folk culture and the Singapore Lion dance. An outdoor event, it was simply electrifying and created a sense of high energy in the atmosphere. To the dignitaries, it was truly a hair-raising moment.

As audience returned to the auditorium, the formation of Kannada community in Singapore was presented through video interviews that was so perfectly woven into a storyline. Ms Indranee Rajah, the Minister for Law and Finance who had graced the occasion complemented Kannada Sangha for their undaunted efforts to integrate with the multicultural society of Singapore.

It was a honor for Kannada Sangha to felicitate the Doyen of Kannada literature Dr SL Bhairappa with Singara Sahitya Rathna award. He proposed a very refreshing idea - encourage entrepreneurship in Singannadigas, and establish robust trade ties with Karnataka that can fuel the growth of Kannada in Singapore on a longer term. The other dignitaries including Mr HR Ranganath, and Mr Kappanna, were felicitated with Singara awards.

After yet another marvellous mythological depiction by the Ocean kids, Sanjay Shantaram's Rasamaya Karnataka group graced the audience with their stunning dance-musical. Historically significant locations situated in Karnataka were explored right before the audience's eyes in a way that spread joy, pride and nostalgia from one Kannadiga to another. Their movements were as elegant as the music and the lucid language.A simple, yet sophisticated masterpiece was transient and the stories conveyed through the dance-drama connected with the hearts of audience.

Sarala Vaastu presented a fresh approach to Astrology using Spiritual and Scientific lenses.

Natana troup's Chama Cheluve was a drama presenting mythological story of Mahishasura Mardana by Chamundi in the form of a folk story. While everyone knew the story the surprise was a subtle message on lust and polygamy. It was simply amazing to see how the act was weaved with songs and folk talks to effortlessly convey a strong social message.

The audience enjoyed the other treats in the event - savouries during lunch, snack and dinner times; and the Lucky draws. Kids Corner entertained the kids while the parents were given a relief to enjoy the Programme.

The audience is back today and are looking forward to another entertainment packed Day.

OneIndia News