Kajri Mahotsav 2026.
A grand and culturally vibrant âKajri Mahotsav 2026' was organised on Saturday at Sharda Gyanpeeth International School, Malad East, Mumbai, under the joint aegis of Bharat Express News Channel and Bhumihar Jagran Manch. The event celebrated the rich folk traditions, cultural heritage and social spirit of Purvanchal, bringing together eminent personalities, cultural figures and representatives from diverse fields.
The programme was attended by Upendrra Rai, Chairman & Managing Director (CMD) and Editor-in-Chief of Bharat Express News Channel, and renowned folk singer and Padma Shri awardee Malini Awasthi as the Chief Guests. Their presence added significance to the celebration of Kajri, Sawan and the rich cultural traditions of eastern Uttar Pradesh.
Addressing the gathering, CMD Upendrra Rai spoke candidly about his personal journey from his ancestral village of Sherpur in Ghazipur to Mumbai, recalling the challenges and struggles he faced along the way. He urged young people to pursue their dreams with determination, hard work, patience and self-confidence, stressing that perseverance and a positive outlook are key to overcoming challenges and achieving success.
Rai also spoke fearlessly on the issue of reservation in the health sector, stating that the medical and healthcare sector should be kept outside the ambit of reservation and that merit and competence should remain the sole criteria for selection in a profession directly connected with human lives and public health. He emphasised that excellence and professional competence must be given the highest priority in areas where decisions directly impact people's lives.
He further underlined the importance of providing young people with opportunities to excel through education, talent and hard work. He called for a social environment that nurtures merit, encourages excellence and enables talented individuals to contribute meaningfully to society.
Drawing upon episodes from the Ramayana, CMD Upendrra Rai highlighted the energy, potential and responsibilities of the younger generation. He said that youth have a vital role in nation-building and in creating a better future for humanity. He also observed that the world is continuously progressing and that the new generation must use its knowledge, talent and energy for the larger good of society.
CMD Rai also said, Sawan is not merely a season but a celebration of nature, music and India's rich cultural heritage. He appreciated the North Indian community in Mumbai for keeping its cultural traditions alive and passing them on to the younger generation despite living away from their native regions.
Padma Shri awardee Malini Awasthi spoke about the timeless significance of Sawan, Kajri and India's folk music traditions. She said that the monsoon season brings renewed energy and inspiration to artists and society. She also highlighted the importance of preserving India's diverse folk traditions and described the Bhumihar community as hardworking, scholarly and progressive in its outlook.
The evening witnessed a vibrant celebration of Kajri, folk music, cultural traditions and community spirit, reflecting the enduring connection of the Purvanchal community with its roots while celebrating Mumbai's diverse and inclusive cultural landscape.
