Music Lovers Mesmerized by the Melodious Flute Performance of Four Generations

Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia and Pandit Rupak Kulkarni’s Enthralling Jugalbandi

Pune: The unique musical festival “Bansuri Parampara”, conceptualized by renowned flutist Pandit Rupak Kulkarni, a senior disciple of world-famous flutist Padma Vibhushan Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia, brought to life the enchanting sounds of the flute across four generations. This grand symphony featured 80 artists ranging in age from 9 to 75 years, offering an unforgettable experience to music lovers.

In the realm of Indian classical music, the Guru-Shishya tradition plays a vital role in passing on knowledge. Every guru finds joy in witnessing the progress of their disciples, ensuring the uninterrupted flow of this musical legacy. The “Bansuri Parampara” festival provided a glimpse into the unbroken tradition of flute playing, leaving the audience in Pune deeply satisfied. It also granted disciples the rare and invaluable opportunity to perform alongside their guru. The two-day festival was organized by Pandit Rupak Kulkarni Music Foundation and Blissful Winds Foundation, led by Mrigendra Mohadkar, at The Poona Western Club, Bhugaon.

The highlight of the festival was the mesmerizing flute jugalbandi between the legendary Padma Vibhushan Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia and his senior disciple, Pandit Rupak Kulkarni. The festival commenced with a captivating ensemble performance featuring Pandit Rupak Kulkarni, his senior disciples, and young prodigies, unfolding the essence of different seasons through their flute melodies.

Thematic Performances Reflecting the Seasons

Indian classical music has a deep-rooted connection with seasons, each raga evoking distinct emotions. The performers beautifully illustrated this bond through their flute renditions.

Basant Ritu (Spring): The joyous arrival of spring was depicted through Hindol Raga, symbolizing love, happiness, and new beginnings.

Grishma Ritu (Summer): The intensity of summer was captured through Vrindavani Sarang Raga, bringing alive the scorching heat.

Varsha Ritu (Monsoon): Pandit Rupak Kulkarni presented a unique composition blending Miyan Malhar and Megh Malhar Ragas, musically portraying nature’s joy during the monsoon.

Sharad Ritu (Autumn): The serenity and tranquility of autumn were expressed through a soulful rendition in Nat Bhairav Raga.

Hemant Ritu (Pre-Winter): The essence of the season was highlighted through the artistic presentation of Yaman Raga.

Shishir Ritu (Winter): The beauty of winter was depicted with an enchanting performance in Kirwani Raga, leaving the audience spellbound.

Following this, Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia and Pandit Rupak Kulkarni played a flute adaptation of a Thumri based on Raga Khamaj, blending lyrical expressions into instrumental beauty. The audience responded with a standing ovation, honoring the maestros. The concert was enriched with the accompaniment of Pandit Arvind Kumar Azad (Tabla), Saurabh Gulvani (Bass Tabla), and Shantanu Pandey (Keyboard), adding depth to the performances.

Day One: A Melodic Extravaganza

The first day of the festival commenced with a soulful vocal performance by Tanishk Arora. This was followed by a mesmerizing flute jugalbandi by Mrigendra Mohadkar and Jaikishan Hingu. The evening concluded with a captivating vocal recital by renowned singer Pandit Raghunandan Panshikar. Accompaniment was provided by Pandit Bharat Kamat, Dipin Das, Sapan Anjaria (Tabla), and Suyog Kundalkar, Akash Naik (Harmonium), enhancing the experience.

A Guru’s Heartfelt Blessings

The presence of a large number of disciples on stage filled Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia with immense joy. Expressing his happiness, he remarked, “It is delightful to see young talents from Maharashtra excelling in every field of art.” He also expressed his wish to return for the next edition of the festival, envisioning a flute in the hands of every Puneite. Deeply moved by the performances, Panditji concluded with heartfelt words:
“The connection between music and the soul is one of love and devotion, bringing true bliss to the heart.”