Chilika Shelduck International Folk Festival

The Chilika Shelduck International Folk Festival is a vibrant event held in Odisha, India, bringing together artists from around the world. This year, the festival featured Giridhar Gomango, the former Chief Minister of Odisha, who is also a talented musician. At over eighty years old, Gomango showcased traditional ‘Dhap’ music using bamboo instruments, emphasizing the universal language of sound in music.

International Performances

The festival, organized by the Odi Art Centre in collaboration with the Eastern Zonal Cultural Centre and the Government of India, also featured performances from Vietnam, South Korea, and various regions of India. A Vietnamese group performed ‘Taranga,’ a traditional routine centered around bamboo instruments, while Korean artist Park Yeon OK expressed excitement about the cultural exchange and plans to teach Korean painting and crafts.

Gomango’s Vision

Gomango described his music as experimental, blending folk, classical, and global rhythms without rehearsals. He believes music transcends boundaries of caste, creed, religion, language, and politics, serving as a bridge between cultures. He stated, “For me, music is not merely entertainment; it’s the enlightenment of the mind, energizing both body and soul.”

Vietnamese Bamboo Art

Vietnamese artist Hung introduced the ‘T’rung,’ a traditional bamboo instrument from Dalat Lamdong, Vietnam. Hung shared the instrument’s history, explaining how it has been passed down through generations in his family. The ‘T’rung’ is crafted from carefully selected bamboo and holds deep cultural significance, played at festivals, marriages, and other significant events.

Cultural Exchange

The festival serves as a platform for cultural exchange, with artists sharing their unique traditions and art forms. Korean artists plan to showcase traditional Korean art and performances, further enriching the festival’s diverse offerings.