UTSAV 2022

As October slowly trudged towards us, our spirits were at record-breaking lows, as was the temperature. The tantalizing arrival of the half term break urged us to push through and endure the chilly winds and frosty climate.

But wait! Saving us from this bleak and treacherous world was the advent of UTSAV 2022 and preparations were soon underway.

This year, the return of the prestigious UTSAV event was a much-awaited occasion by the excitable students. After the remarkable success of last year’s event, the students were ecstatic after learning about the announcement of this year’s event. With the prospect of stunning dances, marvellous acting and tantalizing Indian food, the students were drooling just talking about the event. 23/88

The 2022 event was being held in Altrincham Grammar School for Girls and was set to be the best event of the year. The event was entirely run by the students and for the students (and of course their friends and family). AGSB’s Hindu Sikh & Jain Society banded with the pupils from AGGS and Sale Grammar to put on the greatest show of the year!

On the night of the event, the hallways of AGGS were buzzing with excitement. Performers in extravagant traditional attires could be seen dashing from room to room, preparing for the show. As audience members slowly trickled in, the performers were ready, and the show began!

The show commenced with the Bharatanatyam Ganesh Stuti, a type of traditional Indian dance which was performed by a mix of students. With lively music, energetic dancing, and the anticipation of more performances, this was a spectacular opening for the event. A Bollywood dance followed, consisting of many songs which were performed by three amazing AGGS dancers. This was followed by a singing performance by a few talented AGGS students. The audience was then entertained by a well-performed dance by two of AGSB’s Year 7 students.

After much anticipation came the ‘Pièce de Resistance’ of the show, the AGSB Charades! This performance comprised twenty or so AGSB Students, all members of the HSJS, who had practised to perform an astounding event. The AGSB Charades consisted of several iconic movie scenes, ranging from Western Classics like James Bond or Titanic to Modern Bollywood like Pushpa and Baahubali.

The fantastic programme was concluded with a final Bollywood dance and a Ramayana play performed by the students at Sale Grammar School. The play detailed the happenings of Lord Rama’s life and his victory over the monstrous King Ravana. The play celebrated the victory of light over darkness, the essence of Diwali, and was an amazing end to an amazing programme.

After 2 nights of performances, dances, and food, the Utsav 2022 event raised £4,500! This profit shall go to Wythenshawe foodbank and Centrepoint UK, who help combat food poverty and homelessness in the youth. A special thanks go to the HSJS, AGGS, SGS and all other students and members of staff who were involved in the event.

V Saini