In a riot of colors and rhythms, the UP Day 2026 festivities wrapped up at Lucknow’s iconic Rashtriya Prerna Sthal after three immersive days from January 24-26. This wasn’t just an event; it was a vibrant homage to Uttar Pradesh’s cultural depth, folk traditions, and rapid development, drawing millions into its fold.
Local artists stole the spotlight with folk dances and songs that carried the essence of UP’s heartland. The Ocean Band fused rock with tradition, thrilling young crowds. Vineet Singh’s emotive semi-classical and Pratibha Singh Baghel’s devotional hits were showstoppers.
Progress exhibits from departments painted UP’s success canvas, while cultural programs unveiled hidden gems. Varanasi duo Saurabh-Gaurav Mishra danced Kathak flawlessly, Puran Maharaj’s tabla echoed powerfully. Shweta Dubey and Sheetal Mohan Mishra’s singing was pure bliss, Vishal Gupta’s classical moves graceful, Chandra Bhushan’s drama gripping, and Indian Ocean’s beats infectious.
Mid-fest on the 25th, Vineet Singh ruled with sugam sangeet. Bundeli flair from Virendra Singhal, Ranjana Agrawal’s folk charm, Ganesh Pathak’s bhakti surge, Vandana Kushwaha’s energetic Rai, Kathak synergy by Rahul-Rohit Mishra, Harish Tiwari’s classical depth, and Ilmas Khan’s rhythmic tabla enthralled nonstop.
Republic Day closure peaked with Pratibha Singh Baghel’s acclaimed performance. Sudha Pal’s lively folk, Devika Mangalamukhi’s precise Kathak, Ajay Pandey’s rustic songs, Chhedilal’s poignant Birha, and Shiv-Shivang’s duo vocals, alongside multi-gharana showcases, delivered perfection.
Spotlight on ODOC’s regional dishes and ODOP’s crafts delighted foodies and shoppers. The immersive ‘Art Village’ with Ramayana enactments, kathputli, rope walkers, and village chai transported guests to rural UP. Beyond entertainment, it fostered cultural pride and showcased extraordinary talents.