New Delhi, 13 March (H.S.): Lithuania's Ambassador to India, Dana Mikhevichene, declared women's leadership and creativity as pivotal pillars driving progress in today's global society during a major event.

Speaking as chief guest at the 'Shakti Parv 2026' organized by Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA)'s Nari Samvad Prakalp, Mikhevichene highlighted how such gatherings bolster international cultural dialogue.

IGNCA Member Secretary Dr. Sachchidanand Joshi noted the initiative illuminates diverse facets of feminine strength rooted in Indian tradition, portraying women as embodiments of creation, knowledge, and power while bridging ancient wisdom with contemporary relevance.

The event featured sessions spanning literature to music. A poetry symposium showcased eminent scholars from Delhi University and JNU—including Prof. Meera Dwivedi, Dr. Mamta Tripathi, Dr. Anshu Joshi, and Dr. Sony Pandey—exploring feminine power through verse.

Panel discussions brought inspiring figures like Jyoti Ratre (India's oldest woman to summit Mount Everest), Vedic priest Acharya Shruti Shastri, commercial pilot Capt. Disha Bhoria, and cab driver Babli, who shared transformative experiences.

Afternoon highlights included a jugalbandi on pakhavaj, tabla, and harmonium, alongside a band performance led by Dr. Jaya Tiwari fusing Indian classical and modern music.

Event Essence'Shakti Parv' aims to platform women's contributions in art, education, and courage. Its motto—Mata Bhumi: Putro Aham Prithivya: (This earth is my mother, and I am the earth's child)—symbolizes profound ties between feminine energy and nature.

Distinguished guests included Culture Ministry Joint Secretary Lily Pandey, alongside scholars, artists, researchers, and cultural luminaries.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar