In a celebration of melody and tradition, the 17th edition of the Bansuri Festival witnessed a poignant moment as celebrated lyricist and poet Javed Akhtar was presented with the prestigious Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia Award. The honour was bestowed upon him in the presence of the flute maestro himself, creating a highlight for the packed auditorium of devoted music lovers.
A Call to Cherish Cultural Roots
Accepting the accolade, Javed Akhtar delivered a powerful address on the urgent need to safeguard India's rich cultural heritage. He expressed concern that amidst the nation's significant progress, core values are being eroded. "Our country has made great progress; however, people are gradually forgetting values, literature, music, mythology, and language," Akhtar stated. He emphasized that these elements are the glue that binds society together and are needed now more than ever.
He poetically described the atmosphere of the festival, saying, "Being here today, it feels as though the entire city is playing the flute." For Akhtar, the flute is not just an instrument but a profound connector to the nation's values and age-old traditions.
A Treasured Autograph and Musical Extravaganza
Sharing a personal memory that resonated with the audience, Akhtar recalled a cherished encounter with Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia. "I once took Panditji's autograph on a flute at a programme," he revealed, adding that the signed flute remains one of his most prized possessions to this day. This anecdote drew warm and appreciative applause from the gathered attendees.
The two-day festival was a grand showcase of talent, featuring performances by over 100 flautists ranging from 8 to 80 years in age. This demonstrated the timeless appeal and intergenerational reach of the bansuri. The event also featured stellar performances by renowned vocalist Shubha Mudgal, who was accompanied on the tabla by maestro Aneesh Pradhan. Additionally, the audience was treated to a vocal recital by Meeta Pandit.
An Event Celebrating Artistic Legacy
The 17th Bansuri Festival successfully served as a platform to honour both a living legend of the flute and a stalwart of words who has consistently woven Indian ethos into his work. By felicitating Javed Akhtar with an award named after Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia, the festival bridged the worlds of lyrical poetry and instrumental music, underscoring their shared foundation in Indian culture.
The event stood as a testament to the vibrant and enduring legacy of Indian classical music. It highlighted how traditional arts continue to inspire and unite people across different ages and backgrounds, echoing Akhtar's message that preserving this cultural foundation is vital for the nation's identity.
