Surat’s TAAL group, in partnership with the CIOFF – (Council of International Organizations of Folklore Festivals and Folk-art India) which is an official partner of UNESCO – jointly organized the first ever International Dance Festival in Surat, which was held from 9th to 12th January, 2020, at the large, historical Surat Fort Grounds. Supported by the Surat Municipal Corporation, the mega-fest had performers participating from five countries – Romania, Indonesia, Poland, Slovakia and India.
The aim of the festival was to promote various world cultures on one platform, sending out a message of unity and togetherness – a much needed endeavor during these times. The Festival also sought to awaken and engage the youth in the richness of our culture and involve them in this magnificent cultural exchange.
The opening day ceremony was hosted by none other than our community’s multi-talented, charismatic magician-with-words, Maharukh Chichgar, along with the Mayor of Surat – Dr. Jagdish Patel who inaugurated the ceremony.
On 12th January, 2020, an extraordinary parade comprising all the participating countries singing and dancing together, was organized at Dumas. In the evening, the event was organized at the historical fort of Surat, where yet again, the dynamic Maharukh Chichgar hosted the event, which was attended by dignitaries including MPs – C R Patil and Darshana Jardosh, Mayor Dr. Jagdish Patel, SMC Commissioner Banchhanidhi Pani, actor and teacher Yazdi Karanjia.
Speaking to Parsi Times, Maharukh Chichghar said, “The experience was truly amazing and it brought to life the essence of multi-cultural vibrancy. Art and culture are not the reserve of any boundaries – geographical or otherwise. Also, I believe that the youth of today, do not need all these creature comforts like swanky mobile phones or excessive money to live a full life – they need to know and understand our culture to come closer to their roots, which will enable them to cherish a holistic existence. That is what this exceptional fest was all about!”
