So the stage is set for all night singing. On.the auspicious ocassion Maha Ashtami the youth brigade of my maternal home organised this program to entertain the residents and public. Popularly known as Jagran, where the orchestra party perform some devotional songs throughout the nights. The time has changed so much in these days. I remember in my childhood there used to Jatra. Which keeps the peoole hooked whole night. Now the concept has suddenly disappear from the custom or we can say, old traditional artplay completelly lost in the transit of glamorous set up.
The word "jatra" comes from the Sanskrit word "yatra," which translates to "procession" or "journey". Jatra is a traditional, open-air folk performance that originated in Bengal in the 15th century. Initially rooted in religious themes, especially the Bhakti movement, Jatra evolved to include secular content and gained popularity during the Bengal Renaissance. Jatra performances often cover mythological, historical, and contemporary themes. Jatra performances are a combination of stage play and festivities, often including impromptu musical verse duels (Kavi), religious recitals (Kathakata), folk dance-dramas (Rasas), and mime or pantomime.
I remember watching few glimpses of jatra from the window in my sleep. My maternal uncle in his youth day were a dedicated resources in the jayra performances. But the modern time the old contemporary theme has completelly lost his touch. I am not surprised at all seeing the transformation but what amazes is losing to witness the transit. I have been here after few decades and now seeing the changes really made me to miss those old days. I had those old picture still intact somewhere and watching the new generation taking over and brought something new to make the ocassion grand.
In good faith - Peace!!
