Raajkutir, IHCL SeleQtions, is a space that exudes grandeur, culture and an old-world charm. Taking this a notch higher is their evening rituals and performances that aim to showcase Bengali folk traditions in the city.
Every evening around sunset, dance performances such as the Chhau, Baul or Raibenshe are held in the courtyard of the hotel, for guests to experience Bengali hospitality at its best. Locally inspired refreshments are also circulated to add to the evening. The three performances are alternated each week.
Raajkutir has now opened this experience to non-resident guests as well, who can come in and enjoy the entertainment. Refreshments for non-guests are chargeable.
The Telegraph stopped by one February evening, and what we witnessed left us impressed. Glimpses..
A glimpse of the Chhau performance, a traditional dance form from Purulia,West Bengal. This emerged from traditional martial arts, involving colourful masks, rhythmic drum beats, and powerful acrobatic movements. Chhau dance originated in the Kalinga (Odisha) region of India and is a semi-classical Indian dance with martial and folk traditions.
Baul singers in their saffron robes gave a mellifluous performance. The use of instruments such as the flute, ektara and so on created a rustic vibe.
The audience gets to experience a wholesome Bengali folk experience, with cutting cha and jhal muri served by guys in traditional attire. Refreshments are free for hotel guests and come at a charge for non-guests who come in just for the evening ritual experience.
A still from the Raibenshe performance. It is a folk dance form of West Bengal that is remarkable for its varied expressions of military energy and depiction of martial arts. The unique thing about this dance is that no songs are sung or verses recited during this martial dance. Yelling, thumping of weapons, and military calls create the rhythm for this dance.
“We are delighted to showcase rituals and activities of the great Bengal Renaissance with cultural folk performances to our esteemed guests. IHCL has always been in the forefront in reviving the rich culture and history of India,” said Ankur Gairola, hotel manager, Raajkutir IHCL SeleQtions.
More about it
What: Evening ritual
Where: Raajkutir, IHCL SeleQtions
Timings: 5.30pm onwards
Contact: 91-7003271805 for further details
