Disclaimer: We aren't promoting or demeaning the event, just appreciating what's worth appreciating and just pointing out some procedural lapses.
New Delhi: The 3-day event marked to celebrate 35 years of Sri Sri Ravi Shankar's 'Art of Living' service and humanity began here on Friday. Not to much of our surprise, the event had already gained popularity, courtesy its politicization. From Yamuna Bank's floodplain location to the fine imposed by NGT on the organisers, there's not just one thing, but many that aroused our curiosity for this event.
Yes, the entire event has quite a lot of loopholes; from choking the DND roads to being mismanaged at various levels to the chaotic crowds, but wait, haven't we read a lot about all this already? What we're forgetting is that amidst severe politicization and likely monetary goals, the capital is witnessing something first of its kind.
While rain and hailstorm ensured a rocky start to this festival, it sill managed to retain its ground and continue with utmost vigour. Here are 5 reasons why this festival needs to be lauded despite a large bunch of shortcomings.
It's something really GRAND!
It's not an everyday sight that something as majestic as 'World Culture Festival' takes place in a city. Have you ever seen a stage that has been set up over 7 acres or area? No, right? This set up is apparently a bid to enter the Guinness Book of World Records and if nothing, we should be proud of the fact that it's happening in our country. Not just the stage, but the number of performers in every presentation is just magical! Imagine 1700 Kathak dancers resonating in vibrant colors or more than 1000 Vedic pandits chanting chants of peace; everything will stun you!
UAE to Japan: Dignitaries, performers from all around share the same platform
While a crowned prince from a country in UAE shared his words of appreciation on stage, another dignitary sent a message by video. What matters is that everyone was all praises for our nation. Lithunian dance, Brazilian Samba, Himachali Nati, Thai dance, Argentina's vocals; it's like a mini world in action here.
Undeterred volunteers are inspiring, if nothing else
You should see the spirit and enthusiasm the volunteers are working with. Despite the hailing rainstorm, the chaotic crowd and temporary structures; there's no stopping for the team members. While some of them follow Sri Sri Ravi Shankar ardently, others are jut gaining experience that adds on their CV. None the less, all of them have the same vigour and patience to get the event through.
Might just be a treat for your spiritual self
With regular sessions of guided meditation by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, it goes without saying that it might just be the place to treat your spiritual self. Not just him, but various other spiritual leaders and some religious leaders, are there to help you awaken your inner self this weekend. Even if you aren't a believer, there's no harm in going for this one!
Costa Coffee, Rolling Beans, Pizza Hut apart from 'Sri Sri Foods'
It might just be a marketing strategy to start a line of 'Sri Sri Food' chains in this spiritual gathering, but it seems to be working for them. It does not come as a surprise that once you enter the main ground, there's no major food stalls apart from small kiosks selling this chain of food items; but right at the beginning you've a whole lot of eating outlets to satisfy the foodie in you.
Comments
0 comment