71st Sawai Gandharva Bhimsen Mahotsav begins today: On hallowed stage, several debut artistes this time

A Musician’s Life Made Complete

Lokesh Anand, trained under his father Shri Kalicharan and revered Gurus Pt Ananthalal and Pt Dayashankar, spoke with palpable emotion about the opportunity. “In this world, every classical artiste wishes to perform at Sawai Gandharva at least once,” he said. “Whether they are already big artistes or not, Sawai is such a major festival that everyone wants to present their haazri (offering). It is so large that a musician’s life, particularly their classical music life, perhaps feels incomplete until they have performed here.”

Anand noted the symbolism of his instrument for the inauguration: “The Shehnai is considered a Mangal Vaadya (auspicious instrument). Festivals often choose to begin with the Shehnai so that the entire programme goes forward smoothly and all is well.” He concluded, simply, “I am very thankful to the organising committee for giving me this opportunity. We will take the blessings of Bharat Ratna Pandit Bhimsen Joshi and begin tomorrow.”

The Sacred Thread Continues

The inaugural day, Wednesday, December 10, perfectly frames the Mahotsav’s mission. After Anand, the stage welcomes another debut, vocalist Dr Chetna Pathak, before showcasing global evolution with the Sitar-Cello duet of Pt Shubhendra Rao and Vidushi Saskia Rao-De-Haas. The first day ultimately finds its anchor in the commanding vocal presence of veteran Pt Ulhas Kashalkar.

The Banaras Gharana vocalists, Pt Ritesh and Pt Rajnish Mishra, reinforced this commitment to new talent. Pt Ritesh Mishra affirmed that it is vital that new artists should be encouraged, and a worthy platform should be given for their display of art. He further added that the Sawai Mahotsav is a prominent place for giving an emerging artist recognition.

Shrinivas Joshi, Executive President of the Arya Sangeet Prasarak Mandal, emphasises that the curation is about sustaining the Vasa (vow) of the music. “Through this, we ensure the legacy of the Mahotsav, started by my father in the name of his Guru Sawai Gandharva, continues to thrive.”

The succeeding days will introduce Sarod player Indrayudh Majumdar and international violinist Dr L Shankar, leading to a finale that concludes with the poignant time-honoured ‘Arghya’ — a communal vocal tribute to the Gurus.

This week, Pune opens its heart to the past, present, and most importantly, the unfolding future of Indian classical music.