“Culture lives in every part of us and emerges from the soul. If we are human, culture must remain alive within us because it reflects humanity and the compassion of our conscience”, Bharat Express CMD and Editor-in-Chief Upendrra Rai delivered this message from the stage of Badariya 2026 at Talkatora Stadium in New Delhi.
The Mata Chakeri Devi Foundation and the Delhi Government’s Maithili-Bhojpuri Academy organised the monsoon farewell festival.
CMD Upendrra Rai spoke at length about art, human sensitivity and social harmony. He underlined the deeper role of culture in shaping compassionate communities.
Bharat Express CMD said a society’s true wealth lies in its cultural consciousness.
CMD Upendrra Rai stressed that art and music go beyond entertainment. They cultivate sensitivity, empathy and compassion in people.
Bharat Express CMD praised the dedication behind the festival. He said staging a large, non-commercial cultural event in cities like Delhi and Mumbai demands immense dedication.
CMD Upendrra Rai expressed gratitude to Foundation president Yogita Didi, founder Brijesh Rai, Santosh Ji, Rajiv Ji, Krishnadev Singh, and Radheshyam Yadav, as well as the entire organising committee. He said their efforts had brought the spirit of Purvanchal to the heart of the national capital.
Badariya 2026 emerged as a platform for cultural unity.
Padma Shri Malini Awasthi captivated audiences with thumri and Kajri, while Chandan Tiwari and Priya Mallik performed traditional Maithili and Bhojpuri songs.
Young performers Rishi Singh, Samriddh Pathak and Satvik Pathak added fresh energy, demonstrating that traditional music continues to resonate with younger audiences.
The festival began at NDMC Central Park on September 1, 2025.
Delhi CM Rekha Gupta and Cultural Minister Kapil Mishra attended. Since then, Badariya has become an important fixture on Delhi’s cultural calendar.
Bharat Express, as media partner, provided a live broadcast of the festival.
Also Read: Badariya 2026: CMD Upendrra Rai Highlights Purvanchal Folk Heritage At Delhi Festival
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