The vibrant city of Lucknow witnessed the revival of its famous brass band competition after a hiatus of 18 years. This exciting event took place at the 14th Mahindra Sanatkada Festival, which commenced on Friday at Safed Baradari. The contest featured three brass bands, namely Azad, Viraasat, and Laxmi, all hailing from the same lineage.
With the theme of ‘Raqs-o-Mausiqi’ (Dance and Music), this wedding-like festivity brought back the nostalgia of traditional celebrations and enthralled the spectators. Let’s delve into the details of this captivating event.
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Band, Baaja, Baraat: Wedding-Like Festivity
The Revival of Lucknow’s Brass Band Competition: A long-awaited comeback after 18 Years
The brass band competition, a cherished tradition in Lucknow, made a glorious return after nearly two decades. The absence of this contest for such a prolonged period had left a void in the cultural fabric of the city. The revival of this beloved event brought joy and excitement to both participants and spectators alike.
The Contestants and Their Musical Journey: A Lineage of musical brilliance
Three prominent brass bands, Azad, Viraasat, and Laxmi, showcased their exceptional talent during the competition. Azad Band, the oldest and most revered among the three, emerged as the unanimous winner. Each band demonstrated their proficiency by delivering captivating performances that resonated with the audience.
A Spectacle of Music and Dance
Clad in traditional red uniforms, the band members mesmerized the onlookers with their synchronized play of trumpets, drums, and baritone horns. The performance featured a medley of tunes, including popular melodies such as ‘Badan pe sitare,’ ‘Gulabi Aankhe,’ and ‘Mere desh ki dharti.’ The vibrant amalgamation of music and dance transported the audience to a joyous world of celebration.
A Legacy of Musical Brilliance: Tracing the roots of Azad Band
Azad Band, the progenitor of Viraasat and Laxmi bands, boasts a rich heritage in the world of brass music. It was founded in 1960 by Itwari Lal Azad in a modest store in Naka market.
Inspired by Subhas Chandra Bose’s Azad Hind Fauj, Itwari adopted the surname Azad and named his band accordingly. Over the years, Azad Band has evolved and gained recognition, performing in the presence of esteemed personalities like former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and renowned singers Asha Bhonsle and Pankaj Udhas.
The Challenges Faced by Traditional Brass Bands
In the face of evolving trends, traditional brass bands encounter challenges from the rise of DJs at various events and functions.
The younger generation, inheriting the legacy of these bands, calls for government support to promote this art form through skill development programs. By preserving the Guru-Shishya Parampara (teacher-student tradition), they aim to nurture the interests of aspiring musicians and keep the tradition alive.
Conclusion
The revival of the brass band competition in Lucknow infused the city with a renewed sense of cultural pride and joy. Through their captivating performances, the bands Azad, Viraasat, and Laxmi showcased the timeless beauty of music and dance. As this wedding-like festivity rekindled the spirit of celebration, it also shed light on the challenges faced by traditional brass bands in a changing world. Preserving and promoting such art forms is imperative, ensuring their continuity and providing opportunities for future generations to embrace the rich cultural heritage. Read more with us on why communication is important is marriage alliance and get ahead with your marriage preparations.
FAQs:
What was the theme of the brass band competition in Lucknow?
The theme of the competition was ‘Raqs-o-Mausiqi’ (Dance and Music).
Which band emerged as the winner of the competition?
Azad Band, the oldest among the participating bands, was declared the unanimous winner.
How did Azad Band originate?
Azad Band was founded in 1960 by Itwari Lal Azad, who adopted the surname ‘Azad’ inspired by Subhas Chandra Bose’s Azad Hind Fauj.
Which famous personalities have Azad Band performed for?
Azad Band has had the honor of performing in front of notable figures such as former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, former UP governor N Channa Reddy, former MP governor Lalji Tandon, and renowned singers Asha Bhonsle and Pankaj Udhas.
What challenges do traditional brass bands face today?
Traditional brass bands face the challenge of competition from DJs, who are increasingly replacing bands at various events and functions. The younger generation seeks government support through skill development programs to preserve and promote this art form.
