 Early Times Report
KATRA, Oct 16: The mega theater show 'Mata Ki Kahani' kicks off with a series of fifteen shows at the auditorium of Spiritual Growth, Katra. This grand musical theater presentation has been devised, designed, and directed by Padma Shree Balwant Thakur and is a featured event in the Navratra Festival-2023, organized by J&K Tourism in collaboration with the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board.
Balwant Thakur, Director of Natrang, welcomed the esteemed audience and shared that Natrang has been consistently presenting this internationally acclaimed theater show during the Navratra Festival since 2017. It has become one of the most sought-after events in Katra. He informed that Natrang will host this show every day at 4 pm and 6 pm at the Spiritual Growth Centre in Katra until October 23, 2023. The entry to the show is free of charge.
This unique theater presentation is based on the popular Indian mythology surrounding Mata Vaishno Devi. It encompasses traditional narratives of Mata Vaishno Devi that have resonated in the hills for over a thousand years. The performance blends music, dance, drama, and the latest visual techniques to create a mesmerizing experience.
The story of Mata Vaishno Devi is a classic narrative known in every Hindu household, often recounted by grandmothers. According to legend, during the time when the Goddess was engaged in vanquishing the Asuras, her three main manifestations-Mata Maha Kali, Mata Maha Lakshmi, and Mata Maha Saraswati-came together and combined their collective Tejas or spiritual strength. A radiant light emerged from the place where their Tejas converged, giving rise to a beautiful young girl. The Devis explained that she was created to live on Earth, uphold righteousness, and undergo a life of piety and penance to elevate her consciousness to the level of Godhead. Once she reached that level, she would become one with Lord Vishnu.
The young and spiritually inclined girl, named Vaishnavi, was born to Ratnakar and his wife. From a young age, she delved into deep meditation and pursued self-discovery. She embarked on a journey into the forest to perform severe austerities and penance, where she encountered Lord Rama, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. She wished to unite with Rama, and he promised to return after the culmination of his exile. However, when Rama returned in disguise, Vaishnavi failed to recognize him, causing her great distress. Rama assured her that they would unite during Kaliyug when he would be incarnated as Kalki.
The performance involves seventy accomplished artists, performers, technicians, and designers. Key contributors include Neeraj Kant in Direction, Surinder Manhas Virji Sumbly in art direction, Rahul Singh, Brijesh Avtar Sharma, and Mohd. Yaseen in Costumes and properties, Chander Shekhar in Designing, Sunny Mujoo (Choreography), and Shivam Singh in light design.
This theater production was highly anticipated, and attendees welcomed it with great enthusiasm. It aims to celebrate the legend of Mata Vaishno Devi and the rich cultural heritage of the region. |
