Cultural Performances Spread Message of Environmental Protection and Water Conservation

Udaipur: As part of the *Vande Ganga Water Conservation Jan Abhiyan* and *World Environment Day* celebrations, a series of events were held across Udaipur on Thursday, including a vibrant cultural evening and a mesmerizing *Deepdaan* (lamp offering) ceremony at *Gangaur Ghat*, adding a special charm to the campaign’s first day.

### Cultural Evening Delivers a Message of Sustainability

In a collaborative effort by the **District Administration**, **Municipal Corporation**, **Education Department**, and the **West Zone Cultural Centre**, a cultural evening was organized at the **Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Auditorium** at the Udaipur Municipal Corporation premises. Dignitaries present included **Divisional Commissioner Ms. Pragya Kevlramani**, **District Collector Namit Mehta**, and **Municipal Commissioner Ramprakash**.

The evening began with a soulful rendition of the Rajasthani state song *“Kesariya Balam Aavo Ni”* by Radhika Vaishnav, a student of Happy Home School. Divija Choudhary from *Kathak Ashram Udaipur* delivered a captivating Kathak performance. Folk artists from the West Zone Cultural Centre, Udaipur, performed traditional *Manganiyar folk songs* with a powerful message on environmental conservation and water preservation, winning over the audience.

Students from Rajasthan Mahila Vidyalaya presented a thought-provoking drama themed around protecting the environment. Anushka, a student from Government School Madar, and other young performers conveyed the importance of water conservation and environmental stewardship through dance and poetry. Officials from various departments and members of the public attended the program. All performers were honored by the dignitaries. The event was hosted by **Manoj Gandharva** and **Abha Sirsikar**.

### Ganga Aarti and Deepdaan at Pichola Lake

Later in the evening, the iconic **Pichola Lake** came alive with lights during a *Ganga Aarti* and *Deepdaan* ceremony at **Gangaur Ghat**. The program was organized under the joint auspices of the **Rajasthan Pollution Control Board**, **Municipal Corporation**, and **Water Resources Department**. In the presence of **Municipal Commissioner Ramprakash** and other guests, diyas were floated on the water, symbolizing a collective prayer for water preservation and reverence for natural resources. The glowing lamps illuminated the entire lakefront, creating a divine ambiance.

### Orientation Workshop Emphasizes Groundwater Recharge

An *orientation workshop* was held the same evening at the Municipal Corporation auditorium, with **Principal Secretary T. Ravikant** and **District Collector Namit Mehta** as chief guests. The workshop was inaugurated with a traditional lamp lighting ceremony by Secretary Ravikant.

Renowned expert **Dr. P.C. Jain**, known for his contributions to groundwater recharge, provided insights into simple and practical methods of *rainwater harvesting*. Retired Forest Officer **O.P. Sharma** spoke on the importance of environmental conservation and biodiversity. **Superintending Engineer Atul Jain** highlighted the significance of watershed structures and updated attendees on work being carried out under the *Mukhyamantri Jal Swavlamban Abhiyan*. **Monika Rathore** shared updates on the *Karmabhoomi se Matribhumi Abhiyan*, while **Jitendra Menaria** provided content-specific insights.

All speakers were felicitated by the guests. Also in attendance were **ADM Deependra Singh Rathore**, **Zila Parishad CEO Ria Dabi**, and various government officials.