Bhilwara Sur Sangam Festival Showcases Diverse Musical Talents in New Delhi
The Bhilwara Sur Sangam festival, established in 2012, has grown to become a highly anticipated event in New Delhi. This annual extravaganza brings together a wide array of artists from various genres to perform on a single stage, captivating audiences with mesmerizing jugalbandis and soul-stirring compositions. Past editions have featured renowned musicians like Pt. Anindo Chatterji, Pt. Kumar Bose, Ustad Shahid Parvez Khan, Ustad Rashid Khan, Pt. Ajoy Chakrabarty, Kaushiki, Ustad Shujaat Khan, and Pt. Tejendra Narayan Mazumdar, drawing large crowds with their exceptional performances.
To enhance the audience’s experience, the festival organizers have modified the format to present just one or two concerts per day, allowing attendees to fully immerse themselves in the music without feeling overwhelmed. This thoughtful curation ensures that each performance is savored and appreciated by music enthusiasts.
Manas Kumar’s Debut Performance Charms Audiences with his Violin Recital
The latest edition of the Bhilwara Sur Sangam festival kicked off with a captivating violin recital by Manas Kumar, marking his debut performance in Delhi. Hailing from Assam and recognized as a SNA Yuva awardee, Manas impressed the audience with his mature and authentic approach to music, devoid of any superficial elements. His rendition of raag Puriya Kalyan, followed by skillful compositions in vilambit ek taal and drut teen taal, showcased his musical prowess and mastery over the art form.
Despite his lack of a musical lineage, Manas’s performance resonated deeply with the audience, who appreciated his seamless progression and flawless execution of intricate taans. Collaborating with tabla artist Ojas Adhiya, Manas delivered a mesmerizing repertoire that included raag Jog Kauns, Nand, and a delightful rendition of raag Pahari, leaving a lasting impression on the listeners.
Ashwini Bhide Deshpande Pays Tribute to her Mother Through Soulful Renditions
The festival also featured the legendary Hindustani vocalist, Ashwini Bhide Deshpande, who took the stage to honor her late mother, Vidushi Manik Bhide. Commencing her performance with the melodious raag Bhupali, Ashwini paid homage to her mother by singing compositions passed down to her. The evening was enriched by the presence of Swarangi Marathe and Rindana Rahasya, who provided vocal support, creating a harmonious musical atmosphere.
Ashwini’s rendition of raag Basant, set to Dhamar taal and accompanied by tabla maestro Vinod Lele and harmonium player Vinay Mishra, evoked joy and nostalgia among the audience. The evening culminated with a delightful performance of a dadra on Holi, showcasing Ashwini’s versatility and artistry.
Ustad Waseem Ahmed Khan Delights Audience with Agra Gharana’s Musical Legacy
The festival continued with a mesmerizing performance by Ustad Waseem Ahmed Khan from the illustrious Agra gharana. His rendition of Jaijaiwanti in a traditional dhrupad style, accompanied by tabla virtuoso Vinod Lele and Vinay Mishra, captivated the audience with its depth and intricacy.
Carrying on the legacy of the Agra gharana, Ustad Waseem Ahmed Khan presented classic compositions like ‘Paalana ghar laage’ and ‘Naada akhiyan laage’ in Teen taal, showcasing the rich heritage of Indian classical music. The evening concluded with a soulful sitar performance by Pt. Budhaditya Mukherji, accompanied by Soumen Nandi on the tabla, offering a mesmerizing musical finale.
By featuring a diverse lineup of established and emerging artists, the Bhilwara Sur Sangam festival celebrates the rich tapestry of Indian classical music, bridging the past and the future. Each performance is a testament to the enduring legacy of our musical heritage, promising a vibrant future for generations to come.