Chandigarh, August 2, 2025 – Renowned Hindustani classical vocalist Vidushi Kalapini Komkali captivated audiences with a powerful and deeply expressive performance at ‘Varsha Ritu Sangeet Sandhya 2025’, organised by Indian National Theatre in collaboration with the Durga Das Foundation.
The musical evening took place in the auditorium of Strawberry Fields High School, Sector 26, celebrating the arrival of the monsoon through the rich tradition of Indian classical music.
The event was organized not only to celebrate the arrival of the monsoon but also to pay tribute to the late Navjeevan Khosla, patron of the Indian National Theatre, on his birth anniversary — a befitting homage through music that speaks directly to the soul, said Anil Nehru, President of the Indian National Theatre, and Vinita Gupta, Honorary Secretary.
Rev Swami Brihitananda ji( Secretary Ramakrishna mission Chd) honoured the artistes.
Renowned classical vocalist Kalapini Komkali commenced her captivating performance with Raag Miyan Malhar. She began with the vilambit (slow-tempo) khayal "Kaare Megha Barasat Nahi Re", set to Ektaal, a composition penned by her legendary father Pt. Kumar Gandharva. Rendered with depth and devotion, this piece deeply moved the audience.
She followed with a lively drut (fast-tempo) composition "Jajo Re Badarwa Re", also composed by Pt. Kumar Gandharva, continuing the monsoon theme. Then came a traditional bandish "Bol Re Papiha Re", also in Raag Miyan Malhar, which she presented with finesse and emotional clarity, earning wide appreciation from listeners.
Taking the musical narrative forward, she chose Raag Jaldhar Des to present the evocative composition "Megha Ko Ritu Aayo Re", a piece that beautifully captured the essence of the rainy season and enveloped the audience in a wave of emotion.
Following this, she performed a vibrant tarana, showcasing rhythmic dexterity and musical command. She then moved into Raag Mishra Tilang, delivering a soulful thumri, followed by a melodious folk bhajan titled "Ritu Aayi", blending classical elegance with folk charm.
To conclude her recital, she chose the contemplative Raag Bhairavi and presented a stirring Kabir bhajan, "Gagan Ghata Gahraai". The mystical depth and spiritual undertone of this final piece left the audience spellbound, drawing the performance to a serene and profound close.
Kalapini Komkali, daughter and disciple of the legendary Pt. Kumar Gandharva and Vidushi Vasundhara Komkali, is celebrated as one of India’s finest Hindustani classical vocalists. Her music reflects a profound understanding of tradition, coupled with creative introspection. Her command over bandish (compositions), intricate raga elaboration, and deeply spiritual bhajan renditions—both Sagun and Nirgun—have earned her acclaim across the globe.
In addition to her live performances, Kalapini’s studio recordings include acclaimed albums like Aarambha, Inheritance (HMV), Dharohar (Times Music), and Swar-Manjari (Virgin Records). She has also contributed to film soundtracks such as Paheli and Devi Ahilya. In recognition of her contributions, she was awarded the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 2023.
Accompanying her were Chetan Nigam Joshi on harmonium and Tabla Nawaz Shambhunath Bhattacharjee, both of whom complemented her performance with finesse and sensitivity. The compering for the evening was done by Atul Dubey.
Entry to the event was free, allowing hundreds of music lovers to experience the much sought after magic of classical music aligned with the rhythm of nature.
No comments:
Post a Comment