Vasantotsav Opens at Patna’s Bharatiya Nritya Kala Mandir, Celebrating Spring, Art and Heritage

Art and Culture Minister Arun Shankar Prasad inaugurates festival as revived open-air stage comes alive with devotion, valor and vibrant performances

By :  Amit Singh
Update: 2026-01-23 15:02 GMT

Patna's Bharatiya Nritya Kala Mandir was filled with cultural consciousness and creative energy on Friday as the "Vasantotsav," organized by the Department of Art and Culture, kicked off its grand opening. The evening not only welcomed the season of spring, but also witnessed the reviving glory of art.

The program was inaugurated by the Chief Guest, Shri Arun Shankar Prasad, Honorable Minister, Department of Art and Culture, Bihar, by lighting the lamp. The special guest on the occasion was Shri Pranav Kumar, IAS, Secretary, Department of Art and Culture, Bihar.

 

A Wonderful Combination of Devotion and Valor

Addressing the program, Honorable Minister Shri Arun Shankar Prasad said, "Today is like a divine confluence. On one hand, we are worshipping Goddess Saraswati, the goddess of learning, and on the other, we are celebrating the birth anniversary of national hero Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose. Spring provides a platform for our folk traditions where creativity and awareness meet." He encouraged artists to take advantage of the Chief Minister's Artist Pension Scheme and announced that the revived Open Air Stage will become the largest center for art practice in the future.

A New Dawn with Memories

Sharing emotional moments from the event, Department Secretary Mr. Pranav Kumar said that the restoration of the Open Air Stage was a resolution, which has been realized today with the Minister's support. He urged art lovers to cherish their glorious heritage.

Cultural Performances Win Hearts

A Symbol of New Life and Creation

Ms. Ruby, Director of the Directorate of Cultural Affairs, extended her best wishes for the Spring Festival and Saraswati Puja, saying that this day symbolizes new life and creation. This open-air stage will provide artists with a unique opportunity to showcase their talent and will prove to be a milestone in the interests of art and artists.

Made possible by the guidance of the Honorable Minister and the Departmental Secretary.

In her welcome address, Ms. Kahkashan, Administrative Officer of the Bharatiya Nritya Kala Mandir, warmly welcomed the Honorable Minister, the Departmental Secretary, the Director of the Directorate of Cultural Affairs, the Joint Secretary of the Department, the officials present, the artists, the NCC, NSS, Scout-Guide students, and the art lovers. She expressed her immense joy in dedicating this open-air stage to art lovers again after almost a decade, a feat made possible by the able guidance of the Honorable Minister and the Departmental Secretary.

The Vasantotsav evening was filled with various shades of art:

Fusion: Renowned artist Devesh Mirdani, who came from Mumbai, showcased a fusion dance performance that blended tradition and modernity, captivating the audience.

Stream of Melodies: The songs of renowned Patna singer Alok Choubey added a spiritual sweetness to the atmosphere.

​The Splendor of Braj: 'Phool Ki Holi' and 'Mayur Nritya' presented by the artists of North Central Zone Cultural Centre (Prayagraj) brought alive the celebration of Braj on stage.

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