Mumbai Sanskriti Festival's 32nd edition to amplify message of universal peace through classical music

In this file photo Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia performs at the MU Convocation Hall for the Mumbai Sanskriti Festival

The 32nd edition of the Mumbai Sanskriti Festival is set to captivate audiences with the harmonious melodies of renowned Indian classical musicians, including flautist Rakesh Chaurasia, vocalists Ashwini Bhide Deshpande, and Sanjeev Abhyankar. Organized by the Indian Heritage Society, two-day cultural extravaganza, Mumbai Sanskriti Festival, is scheduled to take place at Mumbai's iconic Town Hall (Asiatic Library) on January 13-14.

On the inaugural evening, Rakesh Chaurasia will kick off the festivities with his performance titled 'Confluence - Music for Peace and Harmony.' Starting with a foundation of Indian classical music, Chaurasia will seamlessly integrate elements of fusion and folk into his musical tapestry. The performance aims to convey a powerful message of universal peace through the language of music.

Expressing his enthusiasm, Chaurasia stated, "This platform provides an ideal stage to spotlight Indian Classical Music, an integral part of our cultural heritage. I commend the Indian Heritage Society for this impactful initiative, poised to resonate with a diverse audience and extend the cultural richness of our heritage to as many as possible."

Accompanying Chaurasia are accomplished artists, including Sridar Parthasarathy on mridangam, Ojas Adhiya on tabla, Shikhar Naad Qureshi on percussion, Sanjoy Das on guitar, and Ritik Chaurasia on flute.

The second day of the Mumbai Sanskriti Festival promises performances by acclaimed exponents of Hindustani classical music. Ashwini Bhide Deshpande will showcase the musical traditions of her Jaipur-Atrauli gharana, while Sanjeev Abhyankar of the Mewati gharana will present 'Bhakti Sangam,' a confluence of devotion embedded in their unique styles, gharanas, and various musical genres such as khayal, bhajans, stotras, and stutis.

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To enhance the cultural experience and ensure inclusivity, entry to the Mumbai Sanskriti Festival is free of cost. Attendees can obtain free passes from Chetana Book Centre in Kala Ghoda and Dadar Matunga Cultural Centre.

Anita Garware, chairperson of IHS, emphasized the importance of heritage adapting to changing times. "IHS plays a pivotal role in rejuvenating heritage landmark structures in the city. Committed to fostering a continual understanding of Mumbai's history and culture through the medium of music, IHS strives to raise awareness about our rich heritage," she said. "What we have inherited is held in trust by the present generation to carry forward to the next."