Chief Minister Pramod Sawant with artistes at the Lokotsav.
PANAJI
For generations, the Bhand family has lived and breathed Bahurupiya, a traditional folk art from Rajasthan. For over 800 years, this art form has been their livelihood and legacy. Carrying this heritage forward are Vikram Bhand and his father, Durga Shankar Bhand, who are in Goa once again to mesmerise audiences with their performances at the Lokotsav festival. After receiving wide appreciation last year, the father–son duo has returned, charging up the evenings and leaving spectators in awe.
Lokotsava, an annual cultural event in Goa, provides a vibrant platform for artists and artisans to showcase their crafts and performances. “Bahurupiya is not just a stage act; it is a living heritage of Indian folk culture,” says Vikram. His colourful portrayals captivate audiences of all ages, filling the Kala Academy complex with energy, movement, and relatable characters. Performing both on and off the stage, the Bhands engage visitors through interactive, roaming acts.
The term Bahurupiya refers to a person who adopts multiple forms or avatars. These characters range from mythological figures like Lord Shiva, Krishna, Rama, and Narad Muni to historical icons, everyday personalities, and even figures like Charlie Chaplin. More than costume changes, Bahurupiya is a disciplined art that demands complete immersion into each character’s spirit.
Custodians of tradition
“We are not just performers, but custodians of a tradition that dates back to nearly 800 years. This art has been preserved in our family for generations and we take pride in continuing with the tradition with the same devotion and authenticity,” states Vikram, adding “Bahurupiya art is not a profession for us – it is our breath, our life. We have inherited it, and it is our responsibility to pass it on to future generations in its purest form.”
The credit for taking this family tradition to the international stage goes to Vikram’s grandfather, Chhaganlal Bhand, an internationally acclaimed Bahurupiya artist. He represented Indian folk culture in countries such as the USA, London, Japan, and Dubai, giving global recognition to Bahurupiya art.
Last year, a rare and emotional moment was witnessed at the Lokotsava 2025 when three generations of the Bhands -- grandfather, father, and son -- performed together in Goa.
Threat of extinction
It saddens Vikram that the traditional folk arts are gradually being pushed to the margins due to television, mobile phones, the internet, and digital entertainment. “There was a time when villagers eagerly awaited the arrival of a Bahurupiya artist. Royal patronage protected this art. Our family served the Udaipur royal court as court Bhand performers for generations. This royal support and social respect once ensured the survival of the art,” he mentions.
Every day is a new day, with a fresh new character played by the father-son who own attires of over 50 characters and they can slip into any one of these, wear it and live the avatar. Throughout the 10-day Lokotsav, Vikram and Durga Shankar had a daily surprise for the audiences with a new transformation in their roles.
The journey @ 13
Vikram began practising the Bahurupiya art at just 13 through school cultural programmes. Years of dedication have taken him across Rajasthan, Goa, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Haryana, Punjab, and Tamil Nadu. While he has earned national and international recognition, he says his greatest reward is the audience’s smile and applause.
Bahurupiya artists master dialects, dialogue, expressions, and body language, sometimes captivating audiences without speaking a word. Their makeup is entirely traditional and closely guarded, using natural colours, kajal, and mineral-based materials called Rangori, removed through a process known as Utrahat.
“This art is our identity and soul,” says the Bhand family. “We will protect it and keep people smiling.”
