Ranchi: On the fifth day of Sanskrit Week, the Sanskrit Department of Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee University, Ranchi, joined hands with the Sanskrit Department of Ranchi University and Sanskrit Bharati to organize a series of cultural competitions that were the talk of the town.
The events were a medley of solo songs, group songs, and solo dance performances, where students not only showcased their talents but also breathed life into the rich heritage of the Sanskrit language. The atmosphere was thick with the essence of Sanskrit, as the students left no stone unturned to highlight its significance.
The solo song competition was a treasure trove of melodies, with students singing their hearts out on various themes. “Ratnagarbha Dhara” extolled the virtues of the earth, while “Mridapi Cha Chandanam” celebrated the sweetness of the Sanskrit language.
The affectionate bond between Yashoda and Krishna was beautifully captured in “Naya Tava Balamimam Yashode,” while “Janani Janmabhoomi” stirred feelings of deep reverence for the motherland. The audience was captivated by songs like “Shrivalli” and “Jeevane Tu Bhavatu Sanskritam,” while “Yadi Tvam Milasi Mam” and “Ninadaya Naveenamaye Vaniveenam” introduced a refreshing stream of music. “Shakti Sambhrutam” echoed the spirit of strength and courage.
In the group song competition, students hit the nail on the head with their teamwork and coordination. “Suras Subodha” charmed everyone with the simplicity and allure of the Sanskrit language, and “Manasa Satatam Smaraniyam” reminded us of the importance of holding great thoughts close to our hearts. “Devavanim Vedavanim” established Sanskrit as the divine language, underscoring its spiritual and religious significance. These performances cast a new light on the glory of Sanskrit, leaving the audience spellbound.
The solo dance competition was a sight to behold, as students danced with grace and precision. “Chandrachood Shankar” paid homage to Lord Shiva, vividly portraying his moon-bearing and trident-wielding form. The dance “Adharam Madhuram…” was a sweet depiction of Lord Krishna’s divine features. “Haristotram” sang the praises of Lord Vishnu, while “Saralabhasha Sanskritam” highlighted the simplicity and practicality of the Sanskrit language.
These competitions were not just about winning; they were a golden opportunity for students to put their best foot forward and delve deeper into the Sanskrit language and culture. The audience was all ears and eyes, appreciating the performances and reaffirming their faith and love for Sanskrit.
Prof. (Dr.) Archana Kumari Dubey, Dean of the Faculty of Humanities at Ranchi University, hit the nail on the head by encouraging students to keep the Sanskrit language alive through art forms like dance and song. She emphasized that these arts are the perfect vehicle to convey the profound thoughts and emotions of Sanskrit in a simple and vivid manner. She urged the students to not hide their talents under a bushel but to let them shine, contributing to the enrichment of Sanskrit.
Dr. Madhulika Verma reminded the students that dance is more than just an art; it’s a powerful medium of expression. She cautioned them to maintain physical balance and precision in their gestures, and to understand the meaning of the Sanskrit songs and hymns they perform, so that the depth and emotions of the pieces can be conveyed to the audience in all their glory.
Dr. Dhananjay Vasudeo Dwivedi struck the right chord by emphasizing the importance of participation in competitions. He noted that these events are a stepping stone to honing one’s talent, testing skills and knowledge, and gaining valuable experience that builds confidence and helps students stay on track toward their goals.
Dr. Shriprakash Singh added his two cents, highlighting the pride we should take in serving the Sanskrit language and arts. He encouraged the students to use their talents to further the knowledge and culture of Sanskrit, thereby contributing to its preservation and promotion.
Dr. Chandramadhav Singh, in his message during Sanskrit Week, underscored that Sanskrit is the bedrock of our cultural values and knowledge. He urged students to stay committed to the study and preservation of Sanskrit, ensuring that this invaluable heritage remains secure and relevant for future generations.
Dr. Bharti Dwivedi put the icing on the cake by stressing the importance of clarity in pronunciation and the expression of emotions in song presentations. She encouraged the students to understand the meaning of the songs they perform and to convey their depth through their performances, so that the audience can truly feel the essence of the music.
The competition judges, Dr. Madhulika Verma, Dr. Bharti Dwivedi, and Dr. Chandramadhav Singh, had their work cut out for them in selecting the winners.
The top honors in the solo song competition went to:
• First place: Sarvottama Kumari
• Second place: Tanu Singh
• Third place: Anamika Bharti
• Consolation prizes: Kriti Kumari, Chandan Kumar, Garima Kumari
In the group song competition, the accolades were as follows:
• First place: Banabhatta Group (Ayush and Shubham)
• Second place: Dandi Group (Garima, Monika, Riya)
• Third place: Panini Group (Pallavi, Kajal, Holika, Tanu, Prerna)
• Consolation prizes: Bhasa Group (Supriya, Rita, Reena), Sriharsha Group (Varsha, Vimla, Kriti, Sarvottama)
For the solo dance competition, the winners were:
• First place: Uday Karmakar
• Second place: Anamika Bharti
• Third place: Sarjana Rathore
• Consolation prizes: Menka Kumari and Nikita Kumari
The success of the event was largely thanks to the tireless efforts of key contributors including Dr. Shrimithra, Dr. Rahul Kumar, Shubham Kesari, Ashish Kumar, Madhuri Singh, Shivam Narayan, Pratima Chauhan, Amit Mohan, and Pankaj Kumar. Their behind-the-scenes work ensured that the event went off without a hitch, making it a memorable day for all involved.