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Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India] : In an era where
the sacred traditions of Indian classical music are tenderly guarded by
dedicated custodians, the Naushad Academy of Hindustani Sangeet stands as a
beacon of cultural preservation. On the evening of Saturday, January 31st,
2026, the attendees resonated with the timeless strains of a Sitar-Tabla
Jugalbandi that transported a mesmerized audience to a bygone era of musical
purity.
The recital featured the virtuosity of world renowned Sitarist
Bhagirath Bhatt and the rhythmic brilliance of eminent Tabla
player Manas Vora. Their performance was not merely a concert but a
testament to the enduring vitality of the classical tradition, maintained today
through the unwavering patronage of institutions like the Naushad Academy.
A Tapestry of Raags and Rhythm
The evening commenced with the melancholic grandeur of Raag Kirwani.
Bhatt unfolded the raag with a beautifully structured Alap, Jod, and
Jhala, allowing the warm, resonant strains of the sitar to
permeate the silence. His intricate finger work crisscrossed the frets, weaving
a rich tapestry of sound that shifted effortlessly from serene introspection to
powerful rhythmic vibrancy.
The narrative then transitioned to Raag Charukeshi,
rendered with remarkable depth and finesse. Bhatt presented a mesmerizing
bandish set to a rare 9-matra taal, followed by a spirited
bandish in Drut Teen Taal. It was here when Manas Vora’s tabla
entered the dialogue, blending seamlessly with the melodic flow of the sitar.
The resulting Jugalbandi was a display of electric chemistry—a rhythmic
dialogue of energy, texture, and precision. The interplay generated waves of
pure musical energy, oscillating between the contemplative and the
exhilarating, transporting listeners to heightened states of ecstasy. The
escalating tempos and complex rhythmic patterns reflected the artist's profound
understanding of the Hindustani classical idiom.
A Homage to Legends
The recital concluded on a soulful note with a bandish in Raag Mishra
Pahadi. In a moments of deep emotional resonance, Bhatt rendered the iconic
composition “Udja Kale Kawan,” paying a heartfelt tribute to
its creator, the legendary composer Shri Uttam Singh Jee, who was present in
the audience. This moving homage stood out as one of the evening’s most
memorable highlights.
World-renowned composer and Music Director Shri Uttam Singh
Jee remarked, ‘Having witnessed numerous sitar performances, I was deeply
impressed by Bhagirath Bhatt’s mastery over his instrument, and Manas was
equally good on tabla. Bhagirath Jee’s playing was truly soulful and
spellbinding. If and when given a chance, I certainly will have Bhagirath Jee
play for me in the times ahead.’
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Rehman Naushad observed,
‘It was an honour to witness and be part of this exceptional recital. Bhagirath
Bhatt Sahab has an immensely bright future ahead of him, much like that of Shr
Ravi Shankar Jee. I wish him every success.
Esteemed composer and producer Shri Gurmeet Singh (son
of Uttam Singh) shared the story of the duo’s discovery: Through a
recommendation, I watched Bhagirath Bhatt Jee’s performances on YouTube and was
instantly struck by how tuneful yet technically accomplished he is. My team
immediately reached out to him, he was overwhelmed and accepted to perform. I
was truly mesmerised by the duo’s performance and look forward to many future
collaborations.
Stewards of the Tradition
This evening of musical excellence was presented under the expert guidance
of the Academy’s permanent trustees, who continue to serve as pillars for the
classical arts and preserving musical culture and heritage:
- Shri Rehman Naushad – President
- Shri Uttam Singh – Secretary
- Shri Gurmeet Singh – Treasurer
- Smt Shehnaaz Parveen Mutiur Rehman – Trustee
- Smt Jasvinder Kaur – Trustee
- Smt Umaraah Mutiur Rehman – Trustee
The Academy also gratefully acknowledged the collaborative efforts that
ensured the
event’s resounding success, including Event Organiser Ms. Parmeet Kaur, Media
Consultant David Allan Vaz, and Nabh Kumar Raju (Photography - Videography)
along
with his NKR Film School students and the entire dedicated event crew.
Website: www.gurmeetsingh.net
Email: contactnaushadacademy@gmail.com