Day 4: Jhankaar Beats: Where tradition and culture meets youthful fire at Jhankaar Beats.

Seth M.R. Jaipuria School celebrated the fourth and final day of its Inter School Jaipuria Fest 2025 with the vibrant Jhankaar Beats event, bringing together nearly 500 students from twenty schools across Lucknow. Over the course of the day, students brought exceptional talent and creativity through a wide range of performances, including dance, drama, singing, beatboxing, and orchestral music.

Young artists drew inspiration from Indian mythology and epic narratives such as the Mahabharata while also celebrating India’s cultural diversity by exploring traditions from Gujarat, Rajasthan, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, and more.

Jhankaar Beats embraced the theme “Veer Bhogya Vasundhara,” emphasizing heroism and valor in legendary stories and honoring the courage of the Indian Army.

The chief guest, Anil Rastogi, the esteemed actor, theatre artist, and retired scientist from CDRI, reflected on the invaluable rewards of a creative life. He remarked, “When you act or perform, the joy and satisfaction that performing arts provide are unparalleled. Additionally, numerous financial opportunities await those whose talents are well honed. Above all, the recognition and admiration you receive for your craft bring a deep fulfillment that sustains the artist’s passion.”

Anil ji also highlighted the crucial role of education, stating, “Education holds equal importance; it nurtures intellectual growth and enhances creativity. Creativity must be fostered, and education offers the essential foundation for this development, enabling you to become a well-rounded individual.”

When a student asked about a particularly joyful moment in his career, Anil Rastogi fondly recalled, “One of my most treasured experiences was in 1989 during the TV serial ‘Udaan.’ That role brought me global recognition and filled me with heartfelt appreciation from audiences worldwide.”

The fest was well organized, with different competitions held at various places in the school. Each event was guided and judged by experts renowned in their own fields.

The central theme of the Abhivyakti event was Veer Ras, representing the emotion of courage and heroism in poetry and performance. A standout act vividly portrayed the story of Abhimanyu and the Chakravyuha, a complex military formation from the Mahabharata. In this poignant piece, Krishna narrated how young Abhimanyu, son of Arjuna, bravely entered the nearly impenetrable battle formation, confronting tremendous odds despite knowing only how to enter, not exit.

Another remarkable performance came from students of Navsrijan School, who presented the dance drama of Daanveer Karna. Karna, the tragic hero of the Mahabharata, was celebrated for his unparalleled generosity and loyalty. Abandoned at birth, he rose to become a mighty warrior of great skill and honor. His story embodies devotion, sacrifice, and moral complexity, culminating in his fateful battle against his half-brother Arjuna, where loyalty triumphed over self-interest.

Vadya-Vrinda cast a spell on the audience with its intricate fusion of melodic raags woven into a captivating classical tapestry. Seth M.R. Jaipuria School delivered the soulful melodies of Raag Shivranjani and Bhairavi, while Navsrijan School composed musical poetry through Raag Bhopali and Vrindavani Sarang. Each ensemble performance radiated pure classical elegance, all beautifully timed within four minutes.

Rhythmic Rhapsody ignited the stage with the vibrant energy of western music ensembles. Several student groups skillfully performed popular English hits such as “Courage to Change the World,” “Eye of the Tiger,” “Beat It,” “Hall of Fame,” and “Alone Part 2” by Alan Walker and Ava Max. Their presentations combined intricate rhythms, precise musicality, and innovative interpretation to fully engage the audience.

The solo beatboxing contest, Vocal Vibrato, amazed the crowd with dazzling displays of techno beat mastery and voice-based creativity. Contestants produced drum and bass rhythms paired with rapid, catchy techno flows, showcasing the vast possibilities of vocal percussion. Among the standout performers, Robindro Banerjee, a student from Jaipuria, earned special praise for his exceptional skill in beatboxing.

The Swaragini event enchanted with flawless classical and folk vocal performances, stirring emotions and paying tribute to India’s musical heritage. Participants impressed with exceptional control over notes, pitch, and rhythm, seamlessly blending traditional patterns with fresh creativity. Highlights included soulful renditions of “Phir Aaj Bhujaaye Phadak Uthi,” “Aarambh Hai Prachand,” and the timeless patriotic anthem “Vande Mataram,” evocative of deep emotion and national pride.

A teacher in charge from another school praised the event, saying, “Usually, we see academic competitions and Olympiads, on such a large scale, but today, here at Jaipuria, witnessing such a grand venue dedicated solely to a performing arts and cultural event was truly a delight.”

The day concluded with a prize distribution ceremony, where Stella Maris School took home the first-place trophy for Jhankaar Beats, while Modern Academy secured the second position.