Patna: The timeless story of ‘Karna’ from Mahabharata came alive through the traditional art of ‘Dastangoi’ as acclaimed writer and performer Mahmood Farooqui presented Dastan-e-Karn at Lok Bhavan on Saturday. The cultural evening offered audiences an opportunity to experience the power of oral storytelling while revisiting one of the most complex and compelling characters of Indian mythology.Organised jointly by Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), Patna regional office, and Bihar Lok Bhavan under ICCR’s Horizon Series, the programme was attended by Governor Syed Ata Hasnain as the chief guest, along with dignitaries, senior officials and members of the cultural fraternity.Through Dastan-e-Karn, Farooqui brought together the epic narrative of Mahabharata, evocative language and dramatic expression to explore the life and character of Karna, whose struggles with identity, social acceptance and destiny continue to resonate across generations.The performance also drew attention to Dastangoi, an oral storytelling tradition rooted in the literary and cultural heritage of the Indian subcontinent. In this art form, the performer creates an expansive narrative through voice, language, gesture and dramatic expression, relying on the power of words and imagination to transport audiences into another world.For Patna’s cultural landscape, the presentation offered an opportunity to engage with a traditional performing art that bridges classical literature and contemporary sensibilities. The evening reflected ICCR’s efforts to promote India’s diverse artistic traditions and create platforms for meaningful cultural engagement.ICCR regional director Swadha Rizvi said that ICCR is committed to promoting such unique artistic traditions and creating meaningful platforms for cultural engagement. “We are delighted to present this special performance in collaboration with Lok Bhavan, bringing the richness of India’s storytelling heritage to the people of Bihar,” Swadha said.ICCR regional director Swadha Rizvi said that ICCR is committed to promoting such unique artistic traditions and creating meaningful platforms for cultural engagement. “We are delighted to present this special performance in collaboration with Lok Bhavan, bringing the richness of India’s storytelling heritage to the people of Bihar”, Swadha said.
