Mithila ‘bhajan' at Atal event wows PM
Narendra Modi
and other dignitaries paid emotional tributes to former PM
Atal Bihari Vajpayee
on his death anniversary.
The performance by Samridhi Pathak and Sanvi Pathak so moved the PM that he met them after the programme to personally commend their talent and encourage them. President Murmu also warmly applauded the duo for their rendition.
West Delhi MP and folk singer Manoj Tiwari, Madhubani MP Dr Ashok Kumar Yadav, and JD(U) national executive president Sanjay Kumar Jha shared videos of the performance on their social media accounts.
Jha noted that the Maithili Vandana, "Jai-jai Bhairavi Asura Bhayauni…", composed by the eminent poet Vidyapati, had left a deep impression on those attending the solemn gathering.
The devotional piece, known as Gosauni, is part of Mithilanchal's rich cultural heritage and is traditionally sung in praise of Goddess Durga.
Bihar BJP president Dilip Jaiswal lauded the young performers and said, "The daughters of Madhubani mesmerised everyone with their wonderful performance in tribute to Atal ji.
The PM not only praised their art, but also gave new energy and inspiration to their spirit."
Vajpayee holds a special place in the hearts of the people of Mithilanchal, remembered for his contributions to the region during his tenure as PM, including the construction of the Kosi Mahasetu and the inclusion of Maithili in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution.
In recent years, the Narendra Modi govt has made a point of showcasing Mithila's art and culture with Bihar scheduled to go to the polls this year.
Finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the establishment of a Makhana Board and even chose to wear a sari adorned with Madhubani painting for her Budget presentation this year. The PM and senior ministers have also gifted Madhubani paintings to foreign dignitaries, including China's defence minister earlier this year.
In Patna, Governor Arif Mohammad Khan and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar paid floral tributes to Vajpayee by garlanding his life-size statue at Pataliputra Park. The statue, unveiled in 2024 by Nitish Kumar, stands as a reminder of the late leader's enduring legacy in Bihar.
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