The grand cultural event of city, Khasdar Sanskrutik Mahotsav, will be held from December 17 to 26 from 6 pm onwards. The 10-day star-studded cultural fest will be inaugurated by cine star Sanjay Dutt, informed Union Minister Nitin Gadkari while interacting with the mediapersons at Convention Centre of Metro’s Airport South station, on Sunday. The event is aimed at providing a platform to talent who often lack recognition. “Through the Mahotsav, apart from bringing national and international stars to city, we are striving hard for promoting local talent,” Gadkari said while informing about various events. The venue for the programme is Ishwar Deshmukh Physical Education College ground, Krida Chowk, Hanuman Nagar.

 

The administration has allowed physical attendance to 9,000 invitees, which is about 25 per cent of the ground’s capacity. Going hi-tech, the organisers have gone for digital passes and those interested may give a missed call on 9158880522. This year, since the nation is celebrating 75 years of Independence, the Mahotsav would have a reflection of patriotism in toto. Chak De India fame singer Sukhwinder Singh will set the tone. Apart from presenting other popular songs, the famous playback singer would also render patriotic songs to ensure people do not forget the toil and struggle of freedom fighters so that Indians could usher in a free nation, Gadkari added. On second day (on December 18), a concert of another famous singer, Kailash Kher will be held. Another star attraction will be poets’ meet that would feature Kumar Vishwas on December 19. Thereafter, on December 20, a cultural music programme of Vidushi Manjusha Patil will be held followed by Tabla performance by Pt Vijay Ghate and troupe. Jugalbandi of North Indian and South Indian styles of music will be held on December 21.

 

The event will be featuring artists of Kanebuwa Pratisthan. On December 22, a local troupe will stage famous Hindi play, Janpat Kalyani Gantantra Amrapali. Gadkari made a special mention of Miracle on Wheels to be presented by Divyangs on December 23. The even is directed by Dr Sayyed Pasha. On December 24, the artists of Marathi comedy show, ‘Hasya Jatra’ will entertain the gathering. A concert of singer Shankar Mahadevan on the theme, ‘My Country-My Music’, will be held on December 25. Ready with new theme, Radha Raasbihari, cine star and ace dancer Hema Malini will perform on concluding day of the Mahotsav. Chairman, Khasdar Sanskrutik Mahotsav Ayojan Samiti, Chandrashekhar Bawankule; MLA Mohan Mate, Anil Sole, Mayor Dayashankar Tiwari, ex-MP Datta Meghe and other members of the organising committee also were present.