‘Sheher Ek – Rang Anek’: Music, theatre, food bring Lucknow’s spirit alive
LUCKNOW: On a balmy Friday evening, a café in the city turned into a living canvas as Rang-e-Awadh presented its latest edition ‘Sheher Ek – Rang Anek’ — a vibrant celebration of Lucknow’s Ganga-Jamuni tehzeeb through music, theatre, food and storytelling.
Under the banner of _Rang-e-Awadh, the curated open-mic at Ginger Arts Café brought together artistes from completely different walks of life, all united by one thing: a deep, undying love for art.
When Professionals Became Performers
The evening proved that passion doesn’t need a profession tag.
From the dais to the stage walked General Vikram Kumar, Jeet Nangal, Colonel Sameer Verma, Mona Datta, Dr. Rishad Rizvi, and Naqsh Salim Durrani — officers, doctors and professionals by day, poets and performers by heart.
Gen Vikram kumar, Amarjeet Nagyal, Col. Sameer verma, Meena Vaidyanathan mesmerized the gathering by their melodious voice.
While story tellers Ms. Mona Dutta, Dr. Rishad Rizvi and Col. Salim Durrani captivated the audience.
Colonel Vibhu Dikshit among others were also present.
They regaled the audience with soulful renditions and intimate stories that captured the many shades of Lucknow.
Founder Meena Vaidyanathan said the platform was born to spotlight such hidden artistes.
“Rang-e-Awadh is about discovering Awadh beyond the familiar narratives. We want people to experience the region through different forms of art and, most importantly, through the eyes and voices of people who are passionate about what they do,” she said.
One City, Many Colours
Themed around “Sheher Ek – Rang Anek”, the evening explored how diverse traditions have shaped Lucknow’s identity. The timing made it even more special — the celebrations of Sawan, Teej and India’s 80th Independence Day* all converged on one stage.
From the romance and vibrancy of monsoon festivals to reflections on freedom, the performances painted Lucknow not just as a city, but as a *living tapestry where languages, communities, festivals and art have mingled for generations.
“A city can have one identity while expressing itself through countless colours,” Meena added. “This edition was our tribute to the plural character of Lucknow.”
More Than A Stage
Rang-e-Awadh positions itself as more than entertainment. It’s a space where established and emerging talent meet curious audiences, and where art is brought back into everyday life — regardless of whether you wear a uniform, a white coat, or a corporate badge.
With every edition built around a new theme and a new perspective, Rang-e-Awadh promises to keep exploring Awadh’s heritage — one colour, one story, one performance at a time.
