From the magazine
Bengal Goa Folk Mela - "Making changes using culture as a tool"
The Bengal Goa Folk Mela, an exhibition of Goan and Bengali folk arts will regale audiences from 16th to 25th February 2018 at Ravindra Bhavan Margao. The Mela, spanning a period of 10 days, will showcase fusion dance, music and handicrafts from West Bengal and Goa.
Terracotta from West Bengal. Pic. Credit: Google
Goan clay handicrafts Pic. Credit: Google
Coconut shell craft Pic. Credit: Google
Organised by *banglanatak.com, the Bengal Goa Folk Mela intends to create a platform for local traditional artists to collaborate and exchange ideas and present the traditions of both the places, Bengal and Goa on a common platform.
Interesting similarities and difference exist between the two cultures. Presenting them together will entertain the audiences. Through the Mela, banglanatak.com will introduce Goan artists to wider markets and in-turn promote cultural tourism.
*banglanatak.com – alleviating rural poverty
We are a social enterprise working across India with a mission to foster inclusive and sustainable development using culture-based approaches. We work for protection of rights of women, children and indigenous people.
“Our mission, ‘Art for Life’ aims at connecting rural artists to the market directly and this has helped in alleviating over 10,000 families out of poverty and converted 15 marginalised villages to cultural destinations in Bengal and Bihar.” (Navhind Times)
Owls handcrafted by artisans. Pic. Credit: Google
Event Schedule:
- Handicraft workshops will be conducted daily during the Mela. Time: 10 am to 12 noon.
- Sale of handicrafts by local traditional artists both from Goa and West Bengal. Time 4 pm to 9 pm
- Performances by local artists in collaboration with Bengali artists and International artists like the Swiss Goa Folk Ensemble, the Bengal Goa Folk ensemble, Bengal Folk Songs. On 16th, 17th and 18th February Time: From 7 pm to 9 pm.
- Bengali and Goan Folk song performances will be held from 19th to 23rd February.
- Chau Dance on 24th and Raibenshe Dance on 25th.
Entry is free and open to all.
This year banglanatak.com has partnered with Ravindra Bhavan Margao and IFB.
