With glittering lights and cheerful crowd Diwali Mela 2011 begins today at Municipal Corporation’s ground at Town Hall. This formally marks the beginning of the festive season; Diwali which is much awaited by all very eagerly and anxiously.

The fair was inaugurated by Bhanu Kumar Shastri, former Chairman, Khadi Gramudyog Board under the pious presence of Mahant Mahamandeleshwer Rasbihari Sharan of Asthal Ashram.

The other dignitaries who graced this occasion include Shantilal Chaplot, former Speaker of Legislative Assembly, Sajjan Katara, MLA (Rural), Dinesh Bhatt, President BJP etc. All the guests took a round of the stalls and also inquired about various items available there.

Cultural evening started with lightning of lamp by the Guests. In her welcome speech Rajni Dangi, Chairperson, Municipal Council, Udaipur said that this fair has been organized for healthy and clean entertainment of the natives.

The evening started with Sai Baba’s aarti which made the milieu religious followed by Vande Matram by Maharana Kumbha Kala Kendra turning the environment from religious to patriotic.

What followed after, were the scintillating performances by local artists which spell bound the spectators. In all 35 programmes were presented in today’s cultural night.

The ground in front of the stage was packed and the performers received grand applause from audiences. The coordinator of Cultural Committee, Dhanpal Swami informed that today’s function was a fusion of Bhawai, Rajasthani, Gujarati, Western and Bollywood Songs and dances.

He further added that 18 October is dedicated to students of Udaipur, where different institutions of Udaipur will get a chance to show their talent on the stage.

Here are few pics of the first night of Diwali Fair 2011 taken by Sayeed Ahmed