Why in News?
The "Maati - 9" Festival (also known as the Purvanchal Mahotsav) is in the news because the 9th edition of the festival was recently addressed by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on 31 March 2026. The event celebrates the rich art, culture, and heritage of the Purvanchal region (Eastern Uttar Pradesh).
Key Information
- Organising Body: The festival is organised by "Maati", a public trust dedicated to the art, culture, and development of the Purvanchal region (covering parts of Eastern Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Nepal).
- Theme for 2026: The 9th edition's central theme was focused on the life and teachings of Sant Kabeer.
Cultural Highlights
- Folk Music & Performance: Featured traditional forms such as Sohar, Birha, Aalhas, and Chaiti.
- Theatrical Acts: Live presentations including Nautanki, Kisan Ka Naach, and the Bhojpuri comedy play "Master Ganeshi Ram".
- Musical Guest: A headline performance by the legendary folk-fusion band Indian Ocean.
Exhibition & Cuisine
- Crafts: Display of regional specialties like Bhadohi carpets, Banarasi saris, and Nizamabad pottery.
- Food: Authentic Purvanchali ethnic foods, including popular dishes like Litti Chokha, prepared by regional cooks.
Purpose
- To celebrate and preserve the social and cultural flavors of the Gangetic plain.
- To provide a platform for the Purvanchali diaspora in Delhi-NCR to reconnect with their roots.
- To honor extraordinary achievers from the region with the "Maati Samman".
- Social Initiatives: Beyond the festival, the trust conducts humanitarian work such as the "Maati's Eye Surgery Camp" to provide free surgical procedures for underprivileged patients in the Purvanchal region.
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