The third day of the 69th Sawai Gandharva Bhimsen Mahotsav unfolded with captivating performances by debutant Rajat Kulkarni and the granddaughter-in-law of Pt. Sawai Gandharva, Padma Deshpande. Held at the Maharashtriya Mandal Krida Sankul, Mukund Nagar, this five-day Indian classical music festival continues to be a melodic celebration.
Rajat Kulkarni’s Debut:
The first session featured Rajat Kulkarni, a rising talent from the Kirana Gharana. With the enchanting Raag Madhuvanti, he began his performance, mesmerizing the audience with Bandishes like ‘Hu To Tore Kaaran Aayi Re Balamva’ and ‘Eri Aali Koyaliya Boley.’ The rendition of Bharat Ratna Pt. Bhimsen Joshi’s Kannada Bhajan, ‘Shree Nikethana Paalayamaam,’ added a soulful touch. Accompanied by Avinash Dighe on Harmonium, Pandurang Pawar on Tabla, Viresh Sankaji, Mobin Mirajkar on Tanpura, Vasant Garud, and Mauli Takalkar on Taal, Rajat Kulkarni left the audience spellbound.
Padma Deshpande’s Melodious Tribute:
The second session witnessed the melodious renditions of Padma Deshpande, paying homage to her grandfather-in-law, Pt. Sawai Gandharva. Starting with the Bandish ‘Piya Bin Mohe’ in Raag Saraswati, she continued with her own composition ‘Maate Saraswati’ in Teen Taal. A self-composed Raag ‘Gopal Sarang’ showcased her musical prowess, dedicated to her father. The performance concluded with the emotive Kajari ‘Ghir Ghir Badra Taare Chaaye’ in Mishra Pahadi. Accompanied by Dr. Arwind Thatte on Harmonium, Ramkrishna Karambelkar on Tabla, Shruti Deshpande on Tanpura, and Aishwarya Deshpande for Vocals, Padma Deshpande left a lasting impression.
Musical Elegance Continues:
As the Sawai Gandharva Bhimsen Mahotsav progresses, the essence of Kirana Gharana and the legacy of Pt. Sawai Gandharva are vividly portrayed through the performances of emerging talents and seasoned artists. The festival promises more enchanting sessions, resonating with the rich traditions of Indian classical music.
