Sirmaur’s Folk Magic Charms the International Film Festival at Goa

The vibrant folk culture of Sirmaur, Himachal Pradesh, is taking center stage at the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa, thanks to the talented artists of Aasra Sanstha.

Under the spotlight, these performers are beautifully showcasing the region’s rich heritage through three major dance forms: the energetic Hati Ki Naati, the graceful Dagyali Naach, and the ancient Singhtu dance. They aren’t just performing; they are telling a story of tradition with every step and melody.

The audience is captivated. The dances, brought to life by the melodious voices of folk singers like Ramlal Thakur and Bimla Chauhan, and the musical talent of Yuva Award winner Gopal Habibi, have become a festival highlight. So much so, that hundreds of tourists from India and abroad are flocking to get their pictures taken with the artists, praising the unique beauty of Sirmauri culture.

This prestigious opportunity was made possible by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, which sent the Aasra Cultural Group to represent Himachal on this global platform. They are sharing the stage with artists from sixteen other Indian states, creating a magnificent tapestry of the nation’s diversity at the festival.

Behind this stunning performance lies months of dedication. Each dance has been meticulously prepared under the guidance of Guru Padmashree Vidyanand Saraik and Dr. Jogendra Habibi, a world record holder himself. Artists like Jogendra, Gopal, Ramlal, Bimla, Saroj, and many others are pouring their heart into their art, ensuring that the glory of Sirmaur shines brightly on the international stage.