Chandigarh, May 5 – A colorful sky and soulful music set the tone at Parade Ground as the ‘Rooh Festival’ unfolded a celebration of unity, culture, and community spirit. Hundreds of kites tied to a single thread symbolized harmony and togetherness, drawing eyes skyward and hearts closer.
Despite intermittent drizzles throughout the day, the mood was lifted in the evening when popular Punjabi singer Jaswant Jassi took the stage. As the weather cleared, large crowds gathered to soak in his devotional and folk melodies.
Jassi began the performance with the soulful Sufi number “Main Neevaan, Mera Murshid Ucha”, setting a spiritual mood. This was followed by audience favorites like “Mera Piya Ghar Aaya” and Amir Khusro’s timeless “Chaap Tilak Sab Chheeni Re Mose Naina Milaike”, which moved the crowd deeply.
As the evening progressed, energy surged with a series of Punjabi tappe and dance numbers. People of all ages danced around the stage, creating an atmosphere filled with joy and rhythm.
A seasoned performer in Punjabi music for over 15 years, Jaswant Jassi has previously performed at events like the Saras Mela and has shared the stage with renowned artists such as Hobby Dhaliwal.
Earlier in the day, despite delays due to rain, kite flying expert Tauseef finally captivated onlookers by launching a line of 100 vibrant kites tethered to a single string. The sight symbolized unity in diversity, resonating with the festival’s core message.
Tauseef, a passionate kite flyer from Rampur, emphasized the health benefits of this fading art, stating, “Kite flying keeps us fit, but real enthusiasts are rare now.” His stall featured kites ranging from two inches to two feet, with daily demonstrations planned depending on the wind.
Throughout the day, local artisans and performers also held live demonstrations, keeping traditional crafts alive and connecting visitors with the cultural roots of the region.
