An artiste during a performance at Gandhi Maidan on Tuesday. Picture by Deepak Kumar

Patna, March 22: Characters from Ramayan like Raavan and Hanuman were startled to see the celebrations for Bihar Divas. Actors from Rajasthan, who performed these characters at Gandhi Maidan today, said they were fortunate to be part of such a grand event.

“We never knew Bihar would be like this,” said Feroz, one of the artists of the troupe who are performing at the state fest.

Their troupe performed Bihar Gaurav Gaan to celebrate the occasion. Their act portrayed the cultural history and the festivals of the state.

Feroz, who played Raavan, said: “We had heard that the crime rate in the state is very high. We were told visitors to the state often fall prey to acts of crime.”

But no criminal dared to attack him, as he was roaming around Gandhi Maidan today, wearing the 10-heads of Raavan. “This is our profession. We move from state to state, putting up our act. This is the first time the Bihar government has invited us,” said Feroz.

Artistes dressed up as Raavan and Hanuman at the celebrations at Gandhi Maidan on Tuesday. Picture by J Prakash

They did not desire to be found wanting when Feroz performed. So the members of other troupes rehearsed till 9 last night.

Kakuli Ghosh, another performer at the function, said: “I have been performing here for the past five years. This is my second Bihar Divas. We rehearsed till 9 last night.”

She added: “I am very proud to be a citizen of this state. It is a proud moment for me to be performing at this beautiful cultural extravaganza.”

Nisha Priyadarshini, another artiste, said: “Bihar Gaurav Gaan includes everything — Holi, Chaita and Chhath. It showcases how rich our culture and history is.”

“We need to tell the younger generations about your rich cultural heritage,” said another senior artiste.

Dancer Vijay Kumar Mishra choreographed the event.

Another artiste Kumar Uday Singh said: “It is a great honour to perform in the function that celebrates Bihari pride.”