Bharath Sangeetha Sammelan 2024: A Celebration of Indian Classical Music and Arts
The Bharath Sangeetha Sammelan 2024, organised by Sri Sathya Sai University for Human Excellence in collaboration with Karnataka State Dr Gangubai Hangal Music and Performing Arts University, Mysore, and the Sangeet Natak Akademi, took place on 21st and 22nd November. The two-day event brought together the finest talents in Indian classical music and performing arts. Filled with inspiring sessions and mesmerising performances, it paid a heartfelt tribute to the rich cultural heritage of Bharat.
The Sammelan began with an inaugural session graced by luminaries from the world of music and performing arts. The welcome address by Prof Nagesh Bettakote and an inspiring speech by Sri Trichur V Ramachandran highlighted the importance of preserving and promoting Indian cultural traditions.
In his divine discourse, Sri Madhusudan Sai stressed the transformative power of music, calling it the embodiment of divinity. He emphasised the need for every citizen to understand and appreciate music and urged educational institutions to include music as an integral part of their curriculum. He also encouraged research into the therapeutic effects of music, recognising its potential to heal and inspire.
To watch the inaugural session click here: Bharath Sangeeta Sammelan 2024 – Day 01
The first technical session, chaired by Smt Charumati Ramachandran, showcased three eminent speakers. Dr Dattatreya Velankar explored “nāda: The Individual and Universal Connect”, delving into the spiritual aspects of sound. Dr Padmaja V Suresh highlighted the symbolic and spiritual connections in performing arts in her talk on “Chakras, Chants, and Sangeeta”. Dr Abhijit Sukhdane’s captivating demonstration of Dhrupad singing concluded the session, leaving the audience inspired.
The second session, chaired by Smt Tanushree Shankar, focused on instrumental and dance traditions. Vidwan B R Somashekhar Jois gave an engaging presentation on Konnakkol, while Dr Prashanna Gogoi brought the vibrancy of Assamese Bihu dance to life with a dynamic performance. Dr Uday Kulkarni closed the session with an in-depth exploration of Tabla traditions, supported by live demonstrations.
Day two began with the third technical session, chaired by Smt Aruna Sairam, a celebrated vocalist known for her versatility.
The first speaker, Dr Rama Kausalya, explored the devotional music of the 7th century, focusing on Devarams and Divya Prabandhams. Sri Bellary M Raghavendra elaborated on “Manodharma in Sangeeta”, showcasing its role in preserving Indian classical music. Pandit Shubhendra Rao’s presentation on the sitar featured a live demonstration, illustrating the instrument’s ability to convey the mood of a raga.
The fourth session, chaired by Smt Revathi Ramachandran, delved into the connections between music and other art forms. Prof Dr C A Sreedhar presented on “Sangeetha and Natya Shastra”, explaining the emotional essence of ragas. Historian Dr Chitra Madhavan discussed temples as centres of art and culture, supported by ancient inscriptions. Smt Mala Ramadorai concluded the session with her talk on “Fine Arts in Education”, highlighting the need for nurturing artistic talents in schools.
The final session, chaired by Dr Rama Kausalya, featured a rich exchange of ideas. Smt Kathakali Jana shared insights into the work of the ITC Sangeet Research Academy in promoting excellence in music. The session concluded with Sri Ananta Hegde and Sri Abhiram Bode presenting a comparative study of ragas in Yakshagana and Carnatic music, leaving the audience with a deeper understanding of their shared heritage.
The valedictory session of the Bharath Sangeetha Sammelan 2024 marked a fitting conclusion to this celebration of Indian classical music. Held on 22nd November 2024, the evening was a tribute to the timeless beauty of this art form. Two stalwarts of Indian classical music, Taalyogi Padmashree Pandit Suresh Talwalkar and Sangeetha Kalanidhi Vidwan Neyveli R Santhanagopalan, were honoured with the prestigious Sri Sathya Sai Sangeet Shiromani title. This recognition celebrated their remarkable contributions to music and their dedication to preserving its rich heritage. The event also featured an inspiring address by Padma Shri awardee and renowned Indian vocalist Aruna Sairam, leaving the audience deeply moved and reflective as the Sammelan came to a memorable close.
To watch the valedictory session, click here: Bharath Sangeeta Sammelan 2024 – Day 02
The Bharath Sangeetha Sammelan 2024 was a resounding success, offering a platform for scholars, musicians, and dancers to share their expertise. Each session highlighted the profound connection between music, spirituality, and cultural identity.
The event not only celebrated Indian classical arts but also inspired new avenues for learning and exploration. The two days left attendees enriched, grateful, and motivated to continue the journey of preserving and promoting the divine art of music.