24th Drama Festival Kicks Off in Hooghly with Colorful Procession and Star-Studded Inauguration

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, November 27, 2024, Hooghly : The 24th edition of the Hooghly Drama Festival, an annual celebration of art and culture, was officially inaugurated at Rabindra Bhavan in Chinsurah on Thursday. The event, organized by the Hooghly Information and Cultural Department, aims to honor the rich theatrical tradition of the district and is held under the guidance of the West Bengal Information and Cultural Department, with inspiration drawn from Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's vision for the promotion of local arts.

The festival kicked off with a vibrant and lively procession featuring over 100 drama and cultural groups from across the district, including folk artists who added to the festive atmosphere. The colorful march made its way through the streets of Chinsurah, drawing a large crowd of spectators and setting the tone for the five-day cultural extravaganza.

The inaugural ceremony was marked by a ceremonial lamp-lighting by District President Ranjan Dhara, who officially opened the festival. Notable dignitaries in attendance included MLA Asit Majumdar, Chinsurah Municipality Mayor Amit Roy, Natya Academy Secretary Debkumar Hazra, Additional District Magistrate Tarun Bhattacharya, and Sadar Sub-Divisional Magistrate Smita Shukla Sanyal, among others.

A total of eight drama groups will take center stage throughout the festival, presenting a variety of plays that highlight the diverse theatrical talent of Hooghly. The event provides a platform for both seasoned and emerging artists to showcase their skills, fostering a deeper appreciation for the dramatic arts within the local community.

The 24th Hooghly Drama Festival is expected to draw large audiences, with performances scheduled to run through Monday. The festival not only celebrates the theatrical arts but also strengthens cultural ties among local communities, bringing people together in a shared appreciation of performance and tradition.