Ode to a Legend

The annual Swami Haridas-Tansen Sangeet Nritya Mahotsav in the Capital, which aims to revive classical dance and music, is planning a tribute to the legendary sitarist, late Pandit Ravi Shankar, this year. The line-up for the three-day event includes well-known names such as Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia, Kathak dancer Uma Sharma and classical vocalists Ustad Ghulam Sadiq Khan and Ustad Ghulam Abbas Khan, among others. "We have invited some of the biggest names of classical music and dance for our festival. This year is special because it's a tribute to Panditji," says classical vocalist Vinay Bharat Ram, who is helping with the event.

Talking about the festival, which is in its 11th year, Sharma says, "The idea is to keep classical dance and music alive. We have always tried to build a rapport between the artistes and the audience in an informal setting." She adds, "Hopefully, this time around also, we can get the younger generation to hear these artistes and learn more about our cultural heritage. Revaiyat bani rehni chahiye. (The tradition should carry on)."

On the inaugural day of the festival, Sharma's disciples will perform a thumri composition by Shankar called Kahaan Gelwa Shaam Salone. "This was one of Panditji's favorite compositions, which will be performed by my senior disciple Radhika Shah, along with a bunch of younger disciples since he encouraged young talent," mentions Sharma.

Swami Haridas-Tansen Sangeet Nritya Mahotsav will be held at Sri Sathya Sai International Centre, Pragati Vihar, Lodhi Road, from January 11 to 13, 6:30 pm. Entry by invitation only.

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