SEP 26
Celebrating Rivers as Cultural and Ecological Lifelines
The 6th edition of Nadi Utsav, organized by the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) under the Ministry of Culture, was inaugurated by Shri C.R. Patil, Union Minister of Jal Shakti, at Janpath, New Delhi. The event was also graced by Shri Gaurang Das (ISKCON), Sadhvi Vishudhanand Bharti Thakur, Shri Rambahadur Rai (President, IGNCA), and Dr. Sachchidanand Joshi (Member Secretary, IGNCA).
Rivers: Heart of Culture and Ecology
In his address, Shri Patil emphasized the importance of rivers in sustaining communities and preserving India’s cultural heritage. He highlighted that river conservation is being pursued through short-, mid-, and long-term plans under initiatives like Water Vision@2047, urging collective responsibility to protect these vital lifelines.
Insights from Experts and Spiritual Leaders
Shri Gaurang Das described rivers as symbols of energy, hope, and progress, while Sadhvi Vishudhanand Bharti Thakur stressed meaningful engagement with rivers and their ecological significance. Shri Rambahadur Rai recalled historical experiences with the Yamuna and emphasized continuous vigilance and action for river conservation. Dr. Sachchidanand Joshi highlighted the festival’s aim to reconnect urban lifestyles with natural water systems.
Seminars, Screenings, and Cultural Engagements
The festival opened with the National Seminar on “Riverscape Dynamics: Changes and Continuity”, featuring over 300 research papers, alongside the “My River Story” Documentary Film Festival showcasing films on ecological, cultural, and human-river connections. The inaugural day concluded with classical music performances themed on rivers, fostering a vibrant dialogue between tradition and contemporary perspectives.
Three-Day Festival to Continue
Nadi Utsav 2025 will run until 27th September, featuring discussions, exhibitions, and cultural programs that celebrate the intertwined relationship between rivers, culture, and ecology.
 under the Ministry of Culture, was){kind=link}