Qais
The city of Lucknow came alive with cultural fervor as it celebrated the 8th Annual Wajid Ali Shah Festival at the prestigious Hotel Taj Mahal, on the 27th of July, 2024. This event was more than just a commemoration; it was a tribute to the life and legacy of Nawab Wajid Ali Shah, the last King of Awadh. The evening was graced by the presence of the city’s elite, who gathered to honor the memory of a monarch renowned for his patronage of the arts and his compassionate rule.
The event, titled ‘Dil-e-Nazuk,’ was masterfully conceived and presented by the renowned filmmaker, poet, and painter Muzaffar Ali. His vision brought to life the essence of Wajid Ali Shah’s legacy, capturing the delicate heart of a ruler who left an indelible mark on Lucknow’s cultural landscape.
The evening commenced with a delightful High-Tea session, where the crème de la crème of Lucknow’s society mingled and exchanged pleasantries. The hosts, members of the Rumi Foundation India, warmly welcomed the guests. The Foundation, led by Muzaffar Ali and Meera Ali, includes other core members such as Mumtaz Ali Khan, Dr. Qamar Rahman, Jayant Krishna, and Tariq Khan.
As the sun set, the cultural festivities began with an enchanting Kathak performance by the talented Shivani Verma. Her graceful movements and expressive storytelling captivated the audience, setting the tone for the evening. The dance was a beautiful homage to the rich cultural heritage of Awadh, embodying the artistic spirit that Nawab Wajid Ali Shah himself cherished.
The highlight of the evening was the Qissagoi session, a narrative storytelling art form, that delved into the life of Nawab Wajid Ali Shah. The “Dastaan,” narrated by the acclaimed Dastango Duo Himanshu Bajpai and Pragya Sharma, provided a vivid and poignant portrayal of the last ruler of Awadh. Their performance traced the King’s journey from his birth to his coronation and ultimately to his exile at Matiaburj.
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Himanshu Bajpai, who has dedicated himself to this narrative, shared his deep commitment to telling the true story of Nawab Wajid Ali Shah. He emphasized the need to correct historical injustices, highlighting how the East India Company had unjustly maligned the Nawab’s name in a bid to annex Awadh. Bajpai’s passion for his subject is evident, and he aspires to bring this untold story to every corner of Lucknow, especially to his own neighborhood of Raja Bazar.
The evening was not just a celebration of history and culture but also a call to acknowledge and rectify historical narratives. Lucknow Pulse extends its heartfelt best wishes to Himanshu Bajpai and Pragya Sharma in their noble endeavor to bring the truth to light. Their dedication to honoring Nawab Wajid Ali Shah’s legacy is a reminder of the rich cultural heritage that continues to thrive in the heart of Lucknow.
As the festival drew to a close, it left an indelible mark on all who attended, a reminder of the city’s glorious past and a celebration of its vibrant present. The Wajid Ali Shah Festival is not just an event but a living testament to the enduring spirit of Lucknow’s cultural and artistic heritage.
Najeeb Khan
