Surat’s ‘Nayika 5.0’ Sets Record with Grand Folk Art Confluence

Surat | Gujarat — Surat has scripted a proud cultural milestone as the city hosted a spectacular confluence of folk art and folk dance under the banner of ‘Nayika 5.0’ and ‘Rangini’, setting a new record and drawing national attention. Organised jointly by the Surat Municipal Corporation, Tal Group and Rangini at the Surat Science Center, the grand festival transformed the venue into a vibrant celebration of India’s rich artistic heritage.

In a historic moment on February 14, the event witnessed the largest gathering of folk artists performing together on a single platform — a feat officially recognised by the India Book of Records and the Asia Book of Records, whose representatives travelled to Surat to present the certification.

Calling the festival a celebration of womanhood, Kritika Shah, Founder Director and Choreographer Architect of Tal Group, said, “Nayika is not merely a cultural program; it is a movement to honour femininity and female power. As we approach International Women’s Day on March 8, this initiative reflects the strength, creativity and leadership of women in art.”

The ‘Rangini’ segment of the festival focused on reviving India’s forgotten and traditional crafts through immersive workshops. Thousands of students from various Surat schools participated enthusiastically on February 13, receiving hands-on training from some of India’s most respected Padma Shri awardees.

Renowned Pithora art expert Pareshbhai Rathwa guided children through the intricate tribal art form, explaining its deep-rooted connection with indigenous traditions. “It is heartening to see young minds eager to learn our tribal heritage,” he said. “Art survives only when it is passed to the next generation.”

From Rajasthan, acclaimed Molela sculpture artist Prashantbhai shared his expertise, while Warli painting maestro Maheshbhai trained thousands of children in the distinctive tribal style. The direct interaction with Padma Shri artists gave students a rare opportunity to understand India’s folk traditions beyond textbooks.

Local artists from Surat also showcased their works in an art gallery set up at the venue, turning the festival into a dynamic cultural hub that attracted art lovers, families and educators alike.

Officials from the Surat Municipal Corporation described the record achievement as a landmark moment for the city. “Surat is rapidly emerging as a cultural capital alongside its industrial identity. This record proves that our city values heritage as much as progress,” an official stated.