This weekend, the Bhavan’s resident Hindustani vocal teacher Smt. Chandrima Misra
Both evenings saw Pt. Rajkumar Misra ji on Tabla accompaniment along with a few of his
presented her students in a dazzling display of talent.
In this two – day festival conceived and organised by her, we were treated to solos, duets, and group performances by her students.
The first evening was titled ‘Bhairav to Bhairavi’ and showcased a range of Ragas that are
sung from morning time till evening.
Beginning with a Ganesha Vandana, the evening saw performances by young students as well as masterful solo renditions by senior students. Starting with Raag bhairav, the performers followed up with morning Ragas including Gunakali, Ahir Bhairav, Gujri Todi, Bhatiyar, Bilaskhani Todi; afternoon Ragas Bhimpalasi, Shuddh Sarang; and evening ragas including Multani and Puriya. The Ragas to be sung at night included Gorakh kalyan, and Bihag.
The audience was serenaded through the different times of the day starting from dawn to night and coming back full circle, befitting ending with a morning raga again.
The second evening was aptly titled ‘Evening Ragas’ and took the audience on a journey
through melodies that are sung in the evening time. It was also an evening of gratitude as
Chandrima ji dedicates it to her late mother, Smt. Gita Samanta ji who passed away last year. Yaman Raag, sung by her youngest students was a great beginning followed by soothing solo renditions of Shuddha Kalyan, Madhuvanthi, Jog, and Bageshri.
A few students also took the opportunity to speak of their experiences of training at The
Bhavan. The second part of the evening was dedicated to Rabindra Sangeet, and had a personal touch as Chandrima ji herself sang a few verses of a song taught to her by her mother. This part was a unique combination of khayal singing and Rabindra Sangeet or Tagore songs, songs that Chandrima ji learnt from her mother.
The first was the song ‘Tumi Robe Nirobe’ in Behag, followed by the classical Khayal in the
same Raag set to teentaal – ‘Jhoom Jhaam’.
The festival concluded with a grand finale in Raga Desh.
Both evenings saw Pt. Rajkumar Misra ji on Tabla accompaniment along with a few of his
students, and Smt. Chandrima Misra ji herself on the harmonium.
It was indeed heartening to see the auditorium jam packed on both days, with a very warmand receptive audience. It was even more encouraging to see so many youngsters ranging from 8-year-olds to matured adult singers who have been practicing for years showcase their artistry and dedication on stage.
We are extremely proud that the Bhavan has been the home to nurture such talents, and we congratulate resident Guru Chandrima ji who is currently training over 160 students in the Hindustani Classical tradition at The Bhavan.
We are indeed hopeful about the future of Classical Art traditions, and this weekend event assured us that we are leaving it in very safe hands for the future.