Gaanasaraswati Mahotsav Concludes with Resounding Success
The 12th edition of the Gaanasaraswati Mahotsav, a vibrant three-day celebration dedicated to Indian classical music and dance, concluded on a high note, leaving audiences enthralled. Organized by Natyasampada Pratishthan, a foundation established through the efforts of veteran theatre personality Prabhakar Panshikar, this festival serves as a heartfelt tribute to Padma Vibhushan Ganasaraswati Kishori Amonkar for her immense contributions to Indian classical music.
Day One: A Melodic Opening
The festival commenced with a captivating vocal recital by Tejashree Amonkar of the Jaipur-Atrauli gharana, who presented the intricate Raag Lalitagauri. Following this, sitarist Bhupal Panshikar mesmerized the audience with renditions of Raag Puriya and Mishra Khamaj. Vocalist Bhuvanesh Komkali then took the stage, offering a soulful performance of Raag Shiv-Kedar. The first session wrapped up with a series of masterful performances: flautist Rakesh Chaurasia showcased Raag Maru Bihag and Raag Bhinna Shadaj, while senior vocalist Padma Shri Pt. Venkatesh Kumar concluded with Raag Kaunsi Kanada.
Day Two: Diverse Artistic Expressions
On the second day, the festival continued with vocalist Dr. Radhika Joshi presenting Raag Puriya Dhanashree and Raag Bhoop. This was followed by vocalist Pt. Raja Kale, who performed Raag Shuddha Nat. Renowned santoor player Rahul Sharma then enchanted listeners with Raag Janasammohini, while celebrated vocalist Vidushi Devaki Pandit delivered renditions of Raga Jhinjhoti and Raag Hemant. The day's second session reached a climax with a masterful sitar recital by senior sitarist Pt. Budhaditya Mukherjee, who presented the evocative Raag Bageshree.
Day Three: A Grand Finale
The final day began with a morning session featuring Anand Bhate performing Raag Ramkali and Raag Miyan Ki Todi. Senior Jaipur gharana vocalist Vidushi Padma Talwalkar then presented Raag Bilaskhani Todi and Raag Lalitagauri. In the evening session, promising vocalist Viraj Joshi performed Raag Patdeep, followed by vocalist Vidushi Aparna Panshikar, who presented Raag Shuddha Nat, Raag Nat Bihag, and Raag Nayaki Kanada. Renowned Bharatanatyam dancers Dr. Swati Daithankar and Nupur Daithankar, along with their students, delivered an elegant Bharatanatyam recital. The festival concluded with senior tabla maestro of the Banaras gharana, Pt. Kumar Bose, presenting Jhaptaal and Teentaal, and Pt. Raghunandan Panshikar performing Raag Rageshree. The entire three-day event was skillfully anchored by Vighnesh Joshi.
About the Festival: The Gaanasaraswati Mahotsav is an annual event that highlights the rich heritage of Indian classical arts, bringing together esteemed artists and enthusiasts to celebrate musical and dance traditions.
