The historic Triveni Kala Sangam amphitheatre in Delhi became a sanctuary of classical melodies this past Sunday. The venue witnessed the inaugural celebration of World Sarangi Day, a global tribute orchestrated by the Saurang Sangeet Society to honor the legacy of the legendary sarangi maestro, Ustad Sabri Khan.
A Son's Tribute and a Historic Echo
The event beautifully wove together music, history, and personal homage. Sarangi virtuoso Kamal Sabri, one of the late maestro's sons, offered a poignant tribute to his father. He performed a soul-stirring rendition of Vande Mataram, deliberately echoing a defining moment in history. He recalled that his father, Sabri Khan, had played the same patriotic composition on the midnight of August 15, 1947, as India awoke to its hard-won independence.
The Sarangi: India's Soulful Voice
Kamal Sabri, who carries forward the 400-year-old legacy of the Moradabad Gharana, spoke passionately about the instrument and the day's significance. "This day commemorates Sabri Khan sahab's immense contribution to preserving the sarangi, an instrument considered the sweetest of all," he stated. He added, "If any instrument is closest to the human heart, it is the sarangi." He elaborated on the instrument's etymology, noting it was earlier known as 'saurangi', meaning 'a hundred colours'. He emphasized that the sarangi, in its diversity of expression, truly represents the unified essence of India.
The musical core of the evening featured performances by sarangi maestros Gulfam Sabri and Kamal Sabri, alongside their talented troupe, enchanting the audience with the instrument's evocative voice.
Honoring Luminaries of Classical Music
The ceremony was also a platform to recognize other stalwarts of Indian classical music. The prestigious Lifetime Achievement Awards were conferred upon two giants: legendary vocalist L K Pandit for his unparalleled contribution to Hindustani classical music, and tabla maestro Sabir Khan of the Farrukhabad Gharana for his dedication to preserving and advancing the percussion tradition.
Furthering its mission of promotion, the event presented the Ustad Sabri Khan Memorial Awards to individuals for their significant work in propagating Indian classical music, arts, and culture. In a gesture highlighting global cultural connections, the Global Cultural Ambassador Award was presented to Reuben Gauci, the Ambassador of Malta to India. Dr. Syed Naseer Hussain was also among the dignitaries present.
The first World Sarangi Day successfully served as a powerful reminder of a rich musical heritage, ensuring that the profound contributions of Ustad Sabri Khan and the hauntingly beautiful sound of the sarangi continue to resonate for generations to come.
