Sambalpur: Shaan’s Music Enthralls Audience on the First Evening of Youth Festival

A Night of Bollywood Hits in Sambalpur

Sambalpur: The crowd swayed to the rhythm as Bollywood singer Shaan Mukherjee mesmerized everyone during the first evening of the Youth Festival in Sambalpur. Starting his performance with the song “Hum Jo Chalne Lage” from the movie Don, Shaan continued with other popular hits like “Jab Se Tere Naina” and “Behti Hawa Sa Tha Woh,” captivating the audience.

Tribute to Odia Culture and Late Tapu Mishra

During his performance, Shaan paid homage to Odisha’s cultural heritage by acknowledging Maa Samaleswari and the region’s significance. He also honored the late Odia singer Tapu Mishra by singing her famous songs like “Mo Mane Prema Sajei.” The audience connected deeply with his heartfelt tribute. Shaan ended the evening with the vibrant song “Rangabati,” leaving the crowd in high spirits.

Other Highlights of the Evening

Former District Magistrate Mrinalini Darshwal, District Collector Siddheshwar Baliram Bondar, and Sambalpur Municipal Corporation Commissioner Vedbhushan attended the event. The organizing team also felicitated Shaan. Joining him on stage, Ollywood singer Sonam Das thrilled the audience with her songs, concluding her set with the ever-popular “Rangabati.”

Three-Day Festivities Begin with Youth Festival

After the successful Lok Mahotsav concluded yesterday, the two-day Youth Festival started today at Sambalpur’s PHD Grounds. Sambalpur District Collector Siddheshwar Baliram Bondar welcomed everyone with a speech. Rengali MLA Sudarshan Haripal inaugurated the festival, while District Council Chairperson Kumadini Nayak praised such events for preserving art and culture.

Controversies Cloud the Event: VIP Overcrowding Sparks Criticism

The VIP gallery was packed with officials and their families, leaving the general audience frustrated. The imbalance drew strong reactions from attendees.

Unauthorized Entry into Media Section

The administration provided media passes, but the media gallery became overcrowded with unauthorized people, leading to discontent among journalists.

Selfie Frenzy in Restricted Zones

As Shaan started performing, VIP attendees and organizing committee members began taking selfies, causing disruption. Security personnel struggled to control the situation.

Confusion Over Invalid VIP Passes

The administration had issued around 500 VIP passes valid for January 4th to 8th, but abruptly canceled them today. Those with passes faced inconvenience and confusion when denied access near the stage.

Poor Planning Exposed

The lack of prior planning became evident. Pass printing for the Youth Festival continued until late evening, even as the program was underway. This chaotic preparation highlighted the challenges of unorganized event management.

Despite these setbacks, the audience thoroughly enjoyed the performances, and the event showcased the cultural and musical richness of Sambalpur.