Youth Festival 2023

Manbhavan-Youth Festival 2023

Hello Readers,  This blog is made on the grounds of a task assigned by Dr. Dilip Barad Sir to reflect our literary and critical skills on the events which we had attended in Youth Festival 2023.

Maharaja Krishnakumarsinhji Bhavnagar University organized its 31st Youth Festival, named "Manbhavan Yuvak Mahotsav," from November 3rd to 5th, 2023, and this time, it was hosted by the #Physical_Education_Department of the university. The central theme of the Youth Festival was "#Nari_Shakti_Vandana," inspired by the recently passed Nari Shakti Vandana bill in Parliament. Women from various fields were felicitated, and it was heartening to see more than 1,000 students participating in the festival, with approximately #700 of them being girls, truly embodying the essence of Nari Shakti Vandana.

The festival featured a total of #32 competitions organized under five sections, including Literature, Music, Fine Arts, Dance, and Theatre, each with a specific name:

- "मनभावन शब्दम" - English Department

- "मनभवन स्वरम" - New Court hall

- "मनभावन नृत्यम" - Amphitheatre

- "मनभावन नाट्यम" - Atal Auditorium

- "मनभावन रंगम" - External Department

  1. Themes represented in various tableaux of Kala-Yatra

1. Chandrayaan:

   The three-day showcase highlighted the significant contribution of Chandrayaan. The inaugural rocket in India was transformed on a cycle, symbolizing the journey initiated by Abdul Kalam. The event covered various aspects, including the involvement of women, references to ancient Vedas and history, and the representation of India's Space Expedition. All these elements were aligned with the University's theme of "Narishakti Vandana '' and celebrated the Nari Shakti Puraskar. The theme also explored the contributions of ancient munis, ISRO, Ras Garba, and emphasized the importance of Vedas with the concept of "Ved se veg."

2. Narishakti Vandana:

   This theme revolved around the worship of nine goddess avatars, encapsulated in the phrase "Navdurga rupe samprat narishakti ne vandan."

3. Rural Women's Contribution in Women Development: Gurjari Bahuratna Vasundhra:

   Under the title "Nari Sanghrshnthi Samunnati," the theme highlighted the contributions of Kasturba Gandhi, Ilaben Bhatt, Jasvantiben Popat, and Sarita Gaykwad.

4. Women: Oppression to Freedom:

   The Department of English chose this theme to illustrate the journey of women from traditional roles to modern ones. It covered various aspects, including the dreams of individuals like Govalan, the persistence of child marriage (Balikavadhu), the challenging lives of worker women, the expectations of a Panihari, and the unacknowledged toil of mothers and wives. The theme also portrayed widows facing a colorless life and societal suppression.

   The narrative shifted to women challenging traditional roles and breaking societal shackles to excel in diverse fields such as business, law, engineering, cricket, the navy, dance, medicine, journalism, and more. The empowered women in these fields also worked towards uplifting those suppressed by society.

   Participating in Kalayatra was a great experience, involving hard work from theme selection to execution. Activities like face painting, slogan creation, preparing cardboard, arranging costumes, collecting props, choreography, acting, and more contributed to the learning experience. Alpa Mam's invaluable efforts and guidance were instrumental in making the event a success.

5. Mobile's Disadvantages:

   While mobile phones offer numerous advantages, their misuse has become a concern. Instances of suicide and accidents due to mobile addiction were highlighted, emphasizing the need for responsible usage.

To access the live streaming of Kalayatra, kindly follow this provided link.

Kalayatra

2. Major themes in dramatic events like One Act Play (एकांकी), Skit (लघु नाटक), Mime (मूक अभिनय), Mono-acting (एक पात्रीय अभिनय).

Themes In Skit :

The skit covered a wide range of significant topics, starting with India's accomplishments in space, such as Chandrayaan. It then delved into serious issues like unemployment, problems in our education system, and debates about the name 'Bharat.' The performance also addressed challenges in Manipur, alcohol bans, and the poor condition of roads in Bhavnagar.

The skit didn't overlook everyday problems like superstitions or the inaction from the Bhavnagar Municipal Corporation. It made a lasting impression on the audience, especially when humorously highlighting issues with the BMC. This included playful jabs at how BMC vehicles always seem to be everywhere except where they are needed, and the construction process in the city turning into a bit of a mess.

The performance also shed light on how these issues can make life difficult, leading to accidents and even deaths. However, it added a humorous touch by pointing out that while these problems create headaches for the public, they ironically generate employment for those fixing flat tires, repairing cars, and working in construction.

The skit also touched on aspects like the value of traditions, online fraud, and the issue of wandering cattle. Despite the messiness and pollution concerns, the performance managed to highlight positive aspects of India's policies. It also didn't shy away from discussing corruption, the positive side of school donations, issues with inflation, and the problem of nepotism.

The skit even questioned the effectiveness of our democracy. It explored the effects of demonetization (when certain currency notes were invalidated) and the complex problems related to pollution. The overall performance captured everyone's attention, painting a clear picture of the numerous challenges and successes we are currently facing. It prompted the audience to contemplate the different issues shaping our world today.

To access the live streaming of skit, kindly follow this provided link.

Skit

Theme in Mono Acting : 

The mono-acting performance was all about showing the tough situations that women face. It skillfully brought out different aspects, depicting the challenges that suppressed women go through. The performance effectively explored the various difficulties that women encounter, providing a compelling and thought-provoking representation.

The mono-acting performance addressed several themes, including the dominance of males, the challenges faced by the third gender, the harsh realities of poverty, and the poignant tale of Radha, who was the mother of Karna. The performance also touched upon issues within college premises and explored the haunting illusion of a mother dealing with the tragic loss of her daughter. Additionally, it included portrayals of "Godse," "Koi Krishna Avatar Nahi Dhare," and a compelling story narrated by a rural girl, emphasizing the importance of conserving stories and experiences. The performance skillfully navigated through these diverse themes, providing a nuanced and impactful representation.

To access the live streaming of Mono Acting, kindly follow this provided link.

Mono Acting

Theme In Ekanki :

1. Kashmir Crisis : 

The play falls within the genre of "drama" or "tragedy," with themes revolving around the harsh realities and struggles faced by the people of Kashmir. Key themes include the uncertainty and anguish surrounding the fates of loved ones, the impact of conflict on women's lives, the tragedy of not knowing the fate of family members, and the survival-driven decisions made by individuals in the face of adversity. Additionally, themes of loss, violence, and the complexities of personal relationships seem prevalent.

2. Laxmi : 

The play falls within the genre of "tragedy," with themes touching upon the consequences of societal expectations, the dehumanizing effects of objectification, alienation, sexual violence, and the tragic impact of such experiences on an individual's mental and emotional well-being.

3. Vat Ek Vyathani :

The genre of this play seems to be a "dramatic narrative" or "modern adaptation. It talks about changing the old stories where female characters like Sita, Kaikayi, Urmila, and Manthra face tough situations. The main idea is to look at these stories from a new perspective, especially focusing on how women are portrayed. It explores themes like giving women stronger roles and challenging the old ways of telling their stories.

5. Jo Guzar na Saki Wo Zindagi Humne Guzari Hai : 

This play falls into the genre of "social drama" or "realistic drama." The themes revolve around social issues, crime, and the harsh realities faced by vulnerable individuals. 

6. Meran : 

This play can be categorized as belonging to the "romantic" or "dramatic realism" genre. The themes of the play focus on nature, the vitality of the forest, and the survival challenges faced by tribal people. It also delves into the transformative impact of the wilderness on characters, particularly the contrast between the primal behavior of men turning animalistic and the women's struggle for protection and survival. In simpler terms, it's like a dramatic story about how nature is alive, and it shows the difficulties tribal people face, especially when men start acting like animals. The main theme is about women supporting and protecting each other in the midst of these challenges.

7. Mahamrutyunjay : 

 The themes revolve around the conclusion of Krishna's story, exploring the character of Krishna and the narratives associated with him. 

8. Christy Brown : 

Themes likely revolve around overcoming physical challenges, artistic expression, and the different life stages of Christy Brown.
In terms of literary theory, "disability studies" could be applicable here, examining how the play portrays and explores the experiences of a person with cerebral palsy. 

To access the live streaming of Ekanki, kindly follow this provided link.

Ekanki-1

Ekanki-2

Mime : 

1. Mime, a captivating theatrical technique, involves expressing ideas, moods, or portraying characters solely through gestures and bodily movements, all without the need for words. This time around, the theme for mime performances included:
   
   

   1. Charan Kanya

   2. Women Empowerment

   3. Para Olympics

   4. The Importance of Outdoor Games Over Mobile Games

   5.Achievements of India in Various Sectors

   
   

   In one of the mime performances, the narrative unfolded the story of how male dominance suppresses women, and subsequently, how women find their voice and empowerment. The engaging portrayal aimed to shed light on the challenges faced by women and the empowering journey toward finding their own voice.

To access the live streaming of Mime, kindly follow this provided link.

Mime

3. Can you apply dramatic literary theories propounded by Aristotle (Tragedy), Ben Jonson (Comedy of Humor), Dryden (Play), Martin Esslin (Absurd theater), Irving Wardle (Comedy of Menace) on the dramatic events presented in Youth Festival?

Aristotle's three unities—time, place, and action—were not always strictly adhered to in some plays. Dryden, in his work "Dramatic Poesy," argues that these violations are necessary for a more profound impact. Additionally, catharsis, especially evident in mythological and women-centric plays, was present. The concept of Hamartia, seen in characters like Krishna and Laxmi, is more pronounced in mono acting performances.

Application of Dramatic theory in Skit : 

The skit incorporates elements from various dramatic theories to create a rich and engaging performance. Here's how you can identify the application of these theories:

1. Realism:

   Application: The skit realistically portrays a wide range of social issues prevalent in contemporary India, such as unemployment, problems in the education system, and debates about the name 'Bharat.'

2. Satire/Comedy of Manners:

   Application: The skit employs humor and satire, especially when highlighting the inefficiencies of the Bhavnagar Municipal Corporation (BMC). The playful jabs at BMC vehicles and the construction process contribute to a comedic tone.

3. Expressionism:

   Application: The skit touches on emotional and psychological experiences, especially when shedding light on how these societal issues can make life difficult, leading to accidents and deaths.

4. Social Realism:

   Application: The skit delves into everyday problems like superstitions, inaction from municipal corporations, and the value of traditions, portraying a realistic and socially relevant narrative.

5.Tragicomedy:

 Application: The skit introduces a humorous touch to serious issues, creating a blend of tragedy and comedy. The irony of problems creating employment opportunities adds a tragicomic element.

6. Existentialism:

 Application: The exploration of the effects of demonetization and the complex problems related to pollution reflects an existentialist theme, questioning the inherent meaning and impact of these events on society.

By incorporating these dramatic theories, the skit not only addresses societal issues but also engages the audinence emotionally, intellectually, and reflectively, making it a well-rounded and impactful performance.  

Application of Dramatic theory in Mono Acting : 

• Feminist Literary Theory:

The mono-acting performance was all about showing the tough situations that women face. It skillfully brought out different aspects, depicting the challenges that suppressed women go through. The performance effectively explored the various difficulties that women encounter, providing a compelling and thought-provoking representation.

• Irving Wardle's Comedy of Menace:

• The portrayal of dominance, challenges, and haunting illusions could be interpreted through Irving Wardle's concept of Comedy of Menace, where humor emerges from threatening situations. The mono-acting performance addressed several themes, including the dominance of males, the challenges faced by the third gender, the harsh realities of poverty, and the poignant tale of Radha, who was the mother of Karna. The performance also touched upon issues within college premises and explored the haunting illusion of a mother dealing with the tragic loss of her daughter.

• Aristotle's Tragedy:

• The depiction of tough situations, conflicts, and the poignant tale of Radha align with Aristotle's concept of tragedy. The intense struggles portrayed in the performance reflect tragic elements.

Application of Dramatic theory in Mime :

• Realism:
• 
  
• The mime's portrayal of real-life issues, like achievements in various sectors and the struggles faced by women, aligns with Stanislavski's pursuit of realistic representation. The silent performances bring a sense of authenticity to the stories.

• Absurd Theatre:

• 
  

• While mime tends to lean towards realism, the juxtaposition of themes like Para Olympics and achievements in various sectors may introduce an element of the absurd. This could prompt reflection on the unpredictable nature of life and societal norms.

• Expressionism:

• 
  

• The exaggerated movements and gestures employed in mime, especially in portraying male dominance and women's empowerment, resonate with expressionist techniques. The physicality of the performances heightens the emotional impact.

Application of Dramatic Theory in Ekanki : 

1.Kashmir Crisis:

  The play aligns with Aristotle's concept of tragedy, portraying the suffering of the people of Kashmir, with a central character, the 'half-widow,' facing immense uncertainty and tragedy. Dryden's emphasis on the structure and plot development in plays is evident in the unfolding of the harsh realities and struggles faced by the characters in Kashmir.

2. Laxmi:

   The tragic fate of Laxmi, marked by alienation, abuse, and eventual suicide, resonates with Aristotle's definition of tragedy.The play may incorporate elements of Ben Jonson's Comedy of Humor to emphasize the societal expectations and dehumanizing effects faced by Laxmi.

 

3. Vat Ek Vyathani:

 The play's altered narratives might be seen through the lens of absurdity, challenging conventional expectations and norms.

4.Ene Nahi to Mele:

  As a comedy, this play would directly align with Ben Jonson's principles, aiming to amuse and entertain the audience through humor.

5. Mahamrutyunjay:

  The retelling of Krishna's story, especially its conclusion, aligns with Aristotle's idea of tragedy, emphasizing human survival and resilience.

 

I took help of ChatGPT for applying theory. 

4. Can you categories One Act Play or other dramatic events as sentimental / anti-sentimental comedy, comedy of manners, classical tragedy, modern tragicomedy or bollywoodish theatre performance?

One Act Play : 

• Kashmir Crisis: Modern Tragicomedy
• Laxmi: Classical Tragedy
• Vat Ek Vyathani: Anti-Sentimental Comedy
• Ene Nahi to Mele: Comedy of Manners
• Jo Guzar Na Saki Wo Zindagi Humne Guzari Hai: Social Drama
• Meran :Modern Tragicomedy
• Mahamrutyunjay: Classical Tragedy
• Christy Brown: Bollywoodish Performance

Mime :

1. Charan Kanya,Women Empowerment, Para Olympics : Modern Tragicomedy

2. The Importance of Outdoor Games Over Mobile Games: Comedy of Manners

3. Achievements of India in Various Sectors: Bollywoodish theatre performance

5. Poetry: In poetry, we have only one event in Youth

Festival. સ્વ રચિત કાવ્ય પઠન: If you get
chance to listen poems, write on themes, metaphors used in the poems, types of poems (sonnet, lyric etc).

1. ઉમ્મીદ
2. સ્મરણની કેડીએ
3. જે કઈ જુળાવે પરણું
4. મેરી માટી મેરા દેશ
5. બાળપણ
Most of the metaphors used are connected to the given subjects. The themes were pre-assigned, so a majority of the participants wrote on the 'ઉમ્મીદ' subject.

Bhajan :

These were some of the bhajans that were performed there.

• એકલા આવ્યા મનવા, એકલા જવાના
• વીજળીને ચમકારે મોતીડા પરોવો પણબાઈ
• ભક્તિ કરવી એને મેળવું અંતરનું અભિમાન
• નથી મળતા એમને ચુકવવા પડે મોળ સંતના
• કર્મનો સંગાથી રાણા મારું કોઈ નથી
• મને જ્યાં ગમે છે ત્યાં હરું છું ફરું છું
• મોહે સુની સુની આવત હસીં

 When we compare it to English literature, we can look at things like what it's about, how it's written, and the special tools it uses. These Bhajans talks about being alone, searching for something spiritual, showing love, and discovering things about yourself. In English stories, you might find similar ideas, but the focus on such things gives it a special touch from its culture.
Using Gujarati words like "મોતીડા પરોવો પાનબાઈ" (diamond on the forehead) brings in a bit of the local culture. English literature has its own culture references, and it changes depending on the writer or the story.

If we look at English literature, a poem like "Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening" by Robert Frost talks about being alone and thinking deeply. In regular stories, the Bhajan could be like stories that explore personal journeys, like some novels or essays.

6. On last day, before or after valedictory, all art events like cartooning, painting, collage, poster making, clay-modelling, installation will be open for public display. You can study themes, satire, didacticism, aestheticism in all these artistic expressions.

To share more insights on this topic, you can visit my blog, where I have covered all aspects of it.

Youth Festival 2023 Highlights

The grand concluding ceremony at the amphitheater was graced by West Zone Parliament Member Sejalben Pandya, along with notable personalities like Niren Bhatt, Dilipsinhji Gohil, and other esteemed EC members. As the excitement reached its peak, the first three performers in each event were announced, and the winners proudly received their well-deserved medals and certificates.

In this thrilling moment, KPES College secured the title of runners-up, while the prestigious General Championship was claimed by Swami Sahjanand Cluster of Colleges. Amidst the cheers and applause, I was thrilled to secure the second rank in cartooning, and my senior Trushali earned the second spot in Rangoli.

Reflecting on these three days, they were genuinely remarkable, filled with both enjoyment and valuable learning experiences. The Youth Festival, after all, is a celebration for the youth, and our university, Mahraja Krisnkumarsinhji Bhavnagar University, serves as a fantastic platform for students to exhibit their artistic talents and creativity.

Thank you.

Image : 5

Video : 1

Words :5930