Classic Revival

It was conceptualised as one of the cultural events during the Commonwealth Games in Delhi,last year,but the resounding success of the Delhi Classical Music Festival has encouraged its promoters to organise the festival for the second consecutive year. “Several attempts are being made to encourage art in the city and we felt classical music also needed attention. I hope this event becomes an annual affair,” says Anita Singh,founder-director of Indian Music Society,pointing out that the festival has the backing of Delhi Chief Minister,Sheila Dixit. “She agreed that there is a need for such a festival. We chose to organise it in a hall to promote the traditional way of listening to Indian classical music,which usually had a small gathering,” adds Singh.

Occupying the stage will be prominent artists. The opening day will have a shehnai rendition by Ustad Ali Ahmed Hussain of Benaras gharana and jugalbandi between Ustad Iqbal Ahmed Khan of Delhi gharana and Padma Shri awardee Parveen Sultana. The following days include performances by sarod maestro Pandit Brij Narayan and Ustad Nishat Khan of the Imdad Khan gharana. The festival will conclude with performances by Pandit Laxman Krishnarao of Gwalior gharana and Pandit Jasraj of Mewati gharana.

The festival will be held at Kamani Auditorium from October 8 to 12. Contact: 23616243,23528532.