The Delhi Classical Music Festival 2024 was a remarkable celebration of Indian classical music, held over three captivating evenings at the Shriram Centre, Mandi House. Organised by the Sahitya Kala Parishad in collaboration with the Government of NCT of Delhi, the festival brought together both legendary artists and rising stars, showcasing the depth and beauty of this timeless art form. The packed audiences each night reflected the lasting appeal of classical music in today’s world.

The festival opened with Ojesh Pratap Singh, whose performances of Raga Bhoopali and Raga Nat-Bihag captivated listeners with their clarity and precision. Following him, Dr. Rindana Rahasya’s presentation of Raga Kedar and Raga Kirwani brought a sense of tranquility to the evening. The night concluded with the legendary Padma Bhushan Pt. Ajoy Chakraborty, whose thumris and bhajans struck a chord with all who attended, leaving a lasting impression.

Day two of the festival continued to impress, with Kashish Mittal presenting Raagas Jhinjhoti, Sohni, and Adana. His Krishna Bhajan was a powerful way to end his performance. The audience was equally enthralled by Satayajeet Talwalkar, who performed a tabla solo full of intricate rhythms, demonstrating his exceptional skill. Deborshi Bhattacharya’s performance of Raaga Abhogi and Raaga Jog was well received for its emotive depth and technical precision, earning him much praise.

The final evening closed the festival on a high note. Pandit Harish Tiwari’s rendition of Raga Puriya Dhanashree was a blend of traditional compositions and a bhajan, creating a deep sense of connection with the audience. Shubhendra Rao’s sitar performance of Kalyan Thaat Raga was both graceful and powerful, showcasing his technical mastery. The festival concluded with Vidushi Shubha Mudgal, whose performance was a fitting finale, leaving the audience mesmerised and filled with appreciation for the beauty of Indian classical music.

As the final notes of Vidushi Shubha Mudgal's performance echoed in the air, the Delhi Classical Music Festival 2024 drew to a close, leaving an indelible mark on all who attended. This three-day celebration not only showcased the talent of some of the most revered maestros but also served as a reminder of the timeless beauty of this rich tradition. With such an overwhelming response, one can only look forward to future editions of the festival, which continue to inspire, educate, and bring joy to music lovers across the capital and beyond.

Photo: Pankaj Kumar