Vividhata ke Rang SubRang ke Sang: A Celebration of Diversity and Talent

NEW DELHI: The Delhi-based theatre community, SubRang Foundation, successfully hosted its fourth no-cost open mic event, “Vividhata ke Rang SubRang ke Sang,” on August 10, 2024, in Shastri Nagar, New Delhi. This unique event was dedicated to showcasing the talents of marginalized communities and individuals with disabilities across all age groups.

The evening was graced by the presence of Anitya Narayan Mishra, affectionately known as “Bebaak Jaunpuri,” a distinguished poet and literary luminary, who also serves as the Rajbhasha Hindi Section Officer at the Municipal Corporation of Delhi. As the Chief Guest, Mishra captivated the audience with his inspiring words and a brief performance of his poetry, leaving a lasting impression on all in attendance.

The event also welcomed poet Harish Bhardwaj and transgender activist Niti Shukla as special invitees, whose participation added depth and diversity to the occasion. In a first, three auto rickshaw drivers took to the stage, bravely sharing their voices and stories through poetry and song. Additionally, specially-abled individuals from the Delhi-based NGO, Eagle Eye, were given the opportunity to shine on stage, alongside students from underprivileged backgrounds, transgender individuals, senior citizens, and visually impaired participants, all of whom presented both self-composed and well-known poems.

SubRang’s founder-director, Neera Bakshi, passionately reiterated the foundation’s mission: “Our goal is to bring hidden talents to the forefront, giving a voice to those who have been overlooked or silenced. We aim to create a platform where every individual, regardless of their background, can express themselves freely and confidently.” Her commitment to inclusivity and empowerment was evident throughout the event.

Harsh Raj, a college student who participated in the open mic, shared his excitement: “Today was an incredible experience. It was the perfect way to connect with new people, witness their amazing talents, and learn from them. Overcoming my stage fear was just an added bonus. I can’t wait for the next event!”

By the end of the night, Neera Bakshi was deeply moved by the overwhelming success of the event. She acknowledged the challenges her team faced but emphasized the collective effort that turned those obstacles into triumphs. “This event is a testament to the power of unity and resilience. Our team worked tirelessly to make this possible, and seeing the joy and pride on the faces of the performers made it all worthwhile,” she said, expressing her gratitude to everyone involved.

Beyond this event, Neera Bakshi is known for her bold direction in several plays that challenge societal norms and prejudices, continuing to inspire change both on and off the stage