The third day of the Sawan Mela, organized by Lucknow Bioscope, Sanatkada, and Naimatkhana, was a vibrant celebration filled with enthusiasm and cultural richness. The event saw a lively crowd gathering to enjoy the festivities. Shopkeepers set up their stalls around noon, and soon, Sanatkada was bustling with visitors, their chatter filling every corner. A Mehendi artist added to the festive spirit, with people lining up to get intricate designs adorned on their hands.
Sawan holds a special place in Indian culture, symbolizing growth, life, new beginnings, and creativity. The event, aptly named Saawan Ki Bahar, aimed to capture the essence of this season through various activities and offerings. Visitors indulged in local delicacies such as nankhatai, batashe, pakoras, and the quintessential chai, enjoying a feast that delighted both the palate and the soul. The mela truly embodied the spirit of Sawan, offering a sensory experience that celebrated tradition and community.
The day also featured Bazm e Hunar, a workshop led by master artisan Sadia, focusing on the exquisite craft of Chikankari embroidery. Nine participants, including Noor Khan, Vasudha, Rahul, and Abhilasha, engaged in hands-on practice, learning the intricate steps of Chikankari and creating their own beautiful designs. This traditional Lucknow craft, known for its delicate white-on-white thread work on sheer fabric, provided participants with a deep understanding and appreciation of its artistry, allowing them to take home a piece of their learning and craftsmanship.
As the evening approached, the ambiance shifted to poetic expressions with Bazm e Shayari at 5 pm. Six young poets from Lucknow, including Dr. Tariq Qamar, Hina Rizvi Haider, and Nawaz Qamar, shared their heartfelt verses in an hour-long symposium. The audience was moved by the emotional and resonant poetry, highlighting Lucknow’s deep connection with art and literature. The day concluded with the captivating performance of renowned Punjabi folk singer Sarabjeet Singh, who, along with his team Gunjan and Kawaljeet, enthralled the audience with traditional Punjabi folk songs and Sufi numbers. This lively performance, celebrating the beauty of Punjabi folk music, left the audience with an unforgettable experience, marking Saawan di Bahaar as a resounding success.
