Moodbidri to host 30th Annual Alva’s Virasat Cultural festival from Dec 10 to 15

Team Udayavani, Dec 5, 2024, 10:33 AM IST

Moodbidri’s Alva’s Education Foundation is set to organize the 30th edition of the Alva’s Virasat National Cultural Festival from December 10 to 15 at the Vanajakshi K. Shripati Bhat Open Air Theatre in Puttige Vivekananda Nagar. Dr. M. Mohan Alva, President of Alva’s Education Foundation, shared the details during a press meet.

The festival will commence on December 10 at 5:30 PM with an inauguration ceremony graced by Dr. D. Veerendra Heggade. The event will be presided over by G. Shankar, President of G. Shankar Family Trust. Following the ceremony, a cultural procession featuring over 100 folk art groups and more than 3,000 artists will take place. The evening will conclude with the Virasat Cultural Chariot Procession and Ratharati.

On December 11, the Alva’s Virasat 2024 Awards will be presented to renowned Hindustani classical vocalist Padma Shri Pandit Venkatesh Kumar. This will be followed by a Hindustani vocal recital and a Gujarati folk dance performance by the Rang Malhar – The Folk Arts group. The evening will culminate with a vibrant showcase of Alva’s cultural heritage.

• December 12: Musical performance by Osman Mir and group from Gujarat, followed by diverse dance presentations.
• December 13: A Sound of India concert by Neeladri Kumar and group, and a collaborative Bharatanatyam, Odissi, and Kathak performance directed by Ashim Bandhu Bhattacharya from Kolkata. Evening performances will also include Kuchipudi by Bengaluru’s Rajarajeshwari Kalaniketan.
• December 14: A 25-member musical ensemble by Chennai-based Stecato, followed by the symbolic Cultural Chariot’s Return.
• December 15: Day-long exhibitions and events, including state-level Scouts and Guides cultural activities and training programs.

The festival is expected to draw over 1 lakh attendees daily.

• Handloom Saree Expo: Featuring GI-tagged handloom sarees and textiles from across India.
• Indian Artisan Bazaar: A display of crafts, apparel, jewelry, and home décor, inspired by Delhi’s Meena Bazaar.
• Agri Expo: With 600 stalls showcasing vegetables, fruits, ornamental plants, and farming equipment.
• Floral and Fruit Show: Indigenous and exotic plant varieties, alongside floral and fruit art.
• Food Festival: Traditional Tulu dishes and regional delicacies from across India.
• Art and Photography Exhibition: Display of paintings, over 600 photographs, and various artworks.