Ustad Ali Akbar Khan - A Musical Tribute

The Ali Akbar Khan Memorial concert organised jointly by Art & Artists (Durga Jasraj) and Pancham Nishaad (Shashi Vyas) was an outstanding tribute to the maestro. Both, Shashi & Durga have over the years, given to music lovers an intangible treasure trove of magical moments! A mix of the young and the not-so-young musicians gave us an opportunity to musically pay our respects to the departed soul. Thanks Durga! Thanks Shashi!

The morning session commenced with a serene flute recital by Rakesh Chaurasia, the erstwhile nephew of Pt Hari Prasad Chaurasia. Rakesh is carrying forward the tradition in right earnest. I had the privilege of accompanying Rakesh on the Tanpura, even as I paid homage to the maestro.

Devaki Pandit performed next and amazed the audience with her mellifluous renditions.

Yogesh Samsi's Tabla solo performance reiterated the fact that he is a gifted artist and a diligent student of late Ustad Allah Rakha Khansaheb.

Shaunak Abhisheki's energetic voice took us back in time and reminded us of his father Pt Jitendra Abhisheki's power packed performances.

Pt Nayan Ghosh is an extremely talented artist who performs with equal ease, both on the Sitar and the Tabla! That morning he gave us an impeccable sitar recital.

Shri Anup Jalota took to the stage next and regaled the audiences with some of his popular bhajans. The audiences sang along, thus creating a harmonious blend.

The morning session concluded with a recital from a magician...Dr. L. Subramaniam! In my opinion, there is seldom born an artiste who with his music not just leaves you moist-eyed but also gives you a glimpse of the divine! The violin in Dr L. Subramaniam's hands creates vibrations of a cosmic nature. The unpretentiousness of his persona coupled with the celestial sounds emanating from his violin, leave me greatly humbled!

With such ethereal music around, I wonder, what else am I seeking? Isn't this 'Nirvana'?