Tag: Chandigarh

  • Evening of Indian classical music with Dr Malkit Singh Jandiala

    Date: 18th January 2024

    Time: 6:30PM

    Venue: Tagore Theatre, Chandgiarh

    Pracheen Kala Kendra, in collaboration with Polo Hindustani Art Heritage & Cultural Trust, organized a mesmerizing evening of Indian classical music, where renowned city-based vocalist Dr Malkit Singh Jandiala captivated the audience with his soul-stirring performance.

    The event was graced by Hon’ble Mr Justice Vinod S. Bhardwaj, Judge, Punjab & Haryana High Court, as Chief Guest. At the same time, Sardar Charan Singh Sapra, Former Trustee of Hazur Sahib, was the Guest of Honor. Several distinguished personalities, including Sh. Rana Gurmeet Sodhi (Former Minister & MLA), Sh. Davinder Pal Singh (Senior Advocate), Sh. Devender Kadyan (Chairman, Mannat Group of Hotels), Sh. Sandeep Sahni (President, Chandigarh Club) and Mr Harold Carver (Founder, St. Stephen’s School) graced the occasion as Special Guests.

    Following the traditional lamp-lighting ceremony, Dr Malkit Singh Jandiala took centre stage, commencing his recital with Raag Jog, presenting the rarely heard Vilambit Bandish “Piyarwa Ko Bir Maye”. He then moved to a Madhya Laya Bandish “Karam Kartar Ki Jo Mo Pe Aaj”, followed by a Tarana. His recital concluded with a Shabad in Nirdharit Raag Shri, “Rang Rata Mera Sahib”, receiving thunderous applause from the audience. Eminent tabla maestro Ustad Akram Khan provided masterful accompaniment on Tabla and Sh. Sumit Mishra on Harmonium and Ustad Murad Ali on Sarangi, adding to the grandeur of the evening.

    The event also featured a book release ceremony, where Dr Malkit Singh Jandiala’s book, “Aadi Granth Shri Guru Granth Sahib Ka Raag Prabandh: Ek Vishleshnatmak Adhyayan”, was unveiled by Sardar Charan Singh Sapra. The book delves into the intricate Raag system of Gurmat Sangeet.

    The evening concluded with a felicitation ceremony, where four eminent personalities were honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award:

    • Bhai Gurmeet Singh Shant, Hazuri Ragi, Shri Darbar Sahib, Amritsar
    • Dr. Shobha Koser, Senior Kathak Guru & SNA Awardee
    • Dr. Pankajmala Sharma, Ex-Dean & Chairperson, Panjab University
    • Pt. Kale Ram, Legendary Tabla Maestro of Punjab Gharana

    At the end of the program, all artists were honoured, with Sh. Sajal Koser, Secretary of Pracheen Kala Kendra, Dr. Shobha Koser, Registrar, and Sh. Amardeep Singh Dahiya, founder of Polo Hindustani Art Heritage & Cultural Trust, extends their appreciation. Sh. Sajal Koser delivered a vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the audience, media, distinguished guests, and the performing artists for making the evening a resounding success.

  • 296th Monthly Baithak

    Date: 11th June 2024

    Time: 6:30PM

    Venue: M.L. Koser Indoor Auditorium, Sector 35B, Chandigarh

    The 296th Monthly Baithak Programme of Pracheen Kala Kendra was a mesmerizing evening featuring an enchanting violin recital by Shubham Sarkar, a talented young violinist from Delhi. Held at the M.L. Koser Indoor Auditorium, the event was a true musical delight, captivating the audience with the sheer brilliance of Shubham’s artistry. The performance was graced by the presence of Ustad Akram Khan and Dr. Mahindra Prasad, adding to the evening’s grandeur.

    Adding to the brilliance of the evening, Shubham was accompanied by his father, Sh. Pradip Kumar Sarkar, on Tabla, whose rhythmic expertise perfectly complemented the violin’s melodious flow.

    The event concluded with a felicitation ceremony where Sh. Sajal Koser (Secretary, Pracheen Kala Kendra) honoured the artists and expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the media, artists, and the distinguished audience for their unwavering support in making the event a success.

  • 295th Monthly Baithak

    Date: 11th May 2024

    Time: 6:30PM

    Venue: M.L. Koser Indoor Auditorium, Sector 35B, Chandigarh

    The 295th Monthly Baithak of Pracheen Kala Kendra was a unique and melodious evening, celebrating the fusion of tradition and innovation in Indian classical music. The event, held at the M.L. Koser Indoor Auditorium, Sector 35, Chandigarh, featured a mesmerizing keyboard recital by the distinguished musician Pt. Vijay Chandra from Allahabad is an artist who has carved a niche by performing classical ragas on electronic synthesizers.

    Adding to the beauty of the concert was the flawless tabla accompaniment by the renowned Rafuuddin Sabri, whose rhythmic expertise complemented Pt Vijay Chandra perfectly. His dexterity and coordination enhanced the richness of the performance, making it a truly unforgettable musical experience.

    At the end of the program, Dr Shobha Koser, Registrar of Pracheen Kala Kendra, honoured the artists with mementoes and Uttariya, acknowledging their contributions to the world of Indian classical music.

    This extraordinary evening was another testament to Pracheen Kala Kendra’s commitment to preserving and promoting Indian classical arts, offering music lovers a rare and delightful experience of classical ragas performed on the electronic synthesizer.

  • World Dance Day 2024

    Date: 29th April 2024

    Time: 6:30PM

    Venue: M.L. Koser Indoor Auditorium, Sector 35B, Chandigarh

    Pracheen Kala Kendra marked International World Dance Day with a mesmerizing evening of Kathak dance performances dedicated to the loving memory of Guru Kanhiya Lal Ji, a Kathak maestro par excellence. The event took place at the M.L. Koser Indoor Auditorium, Chandigarh, showcasing the immense talent of Kendra’s students trained under the esteemed Guru-Shishya Parampara.

    Guided by the expert direction of Guru Brij Mohan Gangani, Guru Yogesh Sharma, and Mrs. Rakhi, the event featured over 20 students, each displaying remarkable artistry and technical prowess.

    The evening commenced with a delightful performance by the little champs under the tutelage of Mrs. Rakhi, presenting a Kathak piece on the bols of the bhajan “Jai Ganpati Jagvandan.” The young dancers—Mohana, Anarghya, Parisha, Mansi, Tanishi, and Saumya—won the audience’s hearts with graceful expressions and rhythmic precision.

    Following this, Guru Yogesh Sharma’s students took centre stage, beginning with a serene Vishnu Vandana on the bols “Shantakaram Bhujagshayanam” performed by Vridhi, Tamanna, Himadri, Aashi, and Anadika. This was followed by a captivating Krishna Vandana in Jhap Taal with the bols “Sawali Surat Man Ko Bhai”, presented by Nahian Chowdhury.

    The evening further elevated as Rashi Shukla, a disciple of Guru Brij Mohan Gangani, mesmerized the audience with a dynamic presentation of pure Kathak syllables, including tode, tukde, ladi, paran, and farmaisihi chakkar, highlighting the intricate footwork and technical brilliance of the dance form.

    The grand finale featured a powerful Durga Stuti with the bol “Jai Jai Mahakali”, beautifully performed by Unnati Sharma and Akshay Sharma, leaving the audience in awe.

    Guru Yogesh Sharma accompanied the talented ensemble on Harmonium and Padant, Unnati Sharma on Vocals, Akshay Sharma and Bhaskar on Tabla, and Guru Brij Mohan Gangani on Padant, adding musical depth to the performances.

    The evening concluded with encouragement from Dr Samira Koser (Deputy Registrar, Pracheen Kala Kendra), who applauded the students for their dedication and congratulated the Gurus for their unwavering efforts in nurturing the next generation of Kathak artists.

  • Preserving Punjab Repertory

    Date: 27th April 2024

    Time: 6:30PM

    Venue: M.L. Koser Indoor Auditorium, Sector 35B, Chandigarh

    Pracheen Kala Kendra organised a special Tabla solo session titled “Preserving Punjab Repertory” at the M.L. Koser Indoor Auditorium. This unique event aimed to uphold the rich Tabla repertory of the Punjab Gharana while providing a platform to nurture and showcase the talent of young artists.

    The evening featured two exceptionally gifted Tabla players, Swarit Panchal from Pune and Raghav Priyaye Bhardwaj from Amritsar, both disciples of SNA Awardee Pandit Sushil Jain. Under the guidance of their esteemed Guru, these young percussionists have been honing the intricate techniques of the Punjab Gharana, and their performances reflected the depth of their training.

    The evening was further enriched by the expert Lehra accompaniment of Dr Gurpreet Singh Moga, providing a steady melodic framework that complemented the vibrant percussion. The event concluded with a felicitation ceremony, where Sh. Sajal Koser and Pandit Sushil Jain honoured the young artists with mementoes, acknowledging their talent and contribution to the rich legacy of Punjab Gharana’s Tabla tradition.

  • 294th Monthly Baithak

    Date: 11th April 2024

    Time: 6:30PM

    Venue: M.L. Koser Indoor Auditorium, Sector 35B, Chandigarh

    The 294th Monthly Baithak Programme of Pracheen Kala Kendra was a mesmerizing evening that showcased a spellbinding Sitar recital by Dr Renuka Gambhir, a distinguished Sitar exponent from Hisar. Held at the M.L. Koser Indoor Auditorium, the event filled the air with the enchanting melodies of the Sitar, captivating the audience with its ebb and flow of intricate musical expressions and the warmth of heartfelt applause.

    Dr Renuka’s mastery over the instrument was evident as her skilful fingers effortlessly glided across the strings, creating a seamless blend of precision and emotion. Each note resonated with clarity, drawing listeners into a world of musical bliss. Her performance highlighted technical brilliance and a deep-rooted understanding of the classical tradition, leaving the audience spellbound.

    The versatile Dr. Nitin Sharma accompanied her on Tabla, whose rhythmic dexterity added depth and vibrancy to the recital. His fluid transitions and impeccable timing perfectly complemented the melodic brilliance of the Sitar, creating a rich and immersive musical dialogue between the two artists.

    The evening concluded with a felicitation ceremony where Dr. Shobha Koser (Registrar, Pracheen Kala Kendra), Sh. Sajal Koser (Secretary, Pracheen Kala Kendra) and veteran artist Meera Madan honoured the artists, appreciating their dedication and contribution to the world of Indian classical music.

  • 53rd All India Bhaskar Rao Nritya And Sangeet Sammelan

    Date: 15th to 24th March 2025

    Time: 6:00PM Daily

    Venue: Tagore Theatre, Chandigarh

  • 293rd Monthly Baithak

    Date: 11th March 2024

    Time: 6:30PM

    Venue: M.L. Koser Indoor Auditorium, Sector 35B, Chandigarh

    Pracheen Kala Kendra organized its 293rd Monthly Baithak Programme at the M.L. Koser Indoor Auditorium, Chandigarh, where two talented dancers, Chhau exponent Prashant Kalia and Kuchipudi danseuse Ayana Mukherjee, enthralled the audience with their spellbinding performances.

    The fine Bhav, Abhinaya, expressions, and command over rhythm and taal displayed by Prashant Kalia and Ayana Mukherjee drew appreciation from both the audience and art critics alike.

    At the end of the program, Kendra Registrar Dr. Shobha Koser and Secretary Sh. Sajal Koser honoured the artists with mementoes and Uttariyas as a token of appreciation for their mesmerizing performance.

  • 292nd Monthly Baithak

    Date: 10th February 2024

    Time: 6:30PM

    Venue: M.L. Koser Indoor Auditorium, Sector 35B, Chandigarh

    The 292nd Monthly Baithak Programme organized by Pracheen Kala Kendra was a spellbinding evening of classical music featuring a mesmerizing vocal recital by Kolkata-based eminent vocalist Sohini Roy Chowdhury. Held at the M.L. Koser Indoor Auditorium, Chandigarh, the event captivated the city’s music lovers with a soulful and evocative performance.

    The delicate blend of emotive nuances and intricate taans left the audience spellbound. The brilliance of her performance was further accentuated by the flawless tabla accompaniment of city-based percussionist Dr Mahendra Prasad, whose rhythmic interplay enhanced the musical depth. The renowned harmonium virtuoso Zakir Dholpuri beautifully supported the performance, whose expertise added a melodic richness to the recital.

    After this magical evening, Pracheen Kala Kendra Secretary Sh. Sajal Koser and Kathak Guru and Registrar Dr Shobha Koser honoured the artists with mementoes, acknowledging their immense contribution to Indian classical music.

    This soul-stirring and melodious evening reaffirmed Pracheen Kala Kendra’s commitment to nurturing and promoting Indian classical music, immersing the audience in a truly divine musical experience.

  • Virasat

    Date: 12th & 13th January 2024

    Time: 6:30PM

    Venue: Tagore Theatre, Chandigarh

    The two-day special musical program Virasat, jointly organized by Pracheen Kala Kendra, Kalashree Delhi, and Chandigarh Sangeet Natak Academy, enthralled art lovers at Tagore Theatre with a magnificent display of classical dance and soulful music.

    The inaugural day was dedicated to classical dance forms, beginning with a graceful Kathak performance by the repertory of Kalashree, choreographed by renowned Kathak exponent Dr. Kavita Thakur. Their presentation, Anavarat, beautifully depicted the balance between tradition and modernity. At the same time, their unique composition, KathakYog, blended the elegance of Kathak with the discipline of Yoga, leaving the audience spellbound.

    Following this, Bharatanatyam virtuoso Samrat Dutta took centre stage, portraying life’s journey through the divine manifestations of the Goddess. The evening concluded with an expressive Odissi recital by Swapna Rani Sinha and her senior disciples. Swapna’s solo rendition of Navarasas—the nine essential emotions in dance—was deeply evocative. At the same time, Anisha and Anushka captivated the audience with a duet depicting Radha-Krishna’s eternal love. The program concluded with a powerful Agni Stuti set to Raag Malika.

    The event was inaugurated with a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony in the esteemed presence of Shri S.S. Parmar, IAS (Retd.), former Chief Secretary of Himachal Pradesh, as Chief Guest, and eminent Sitar maestro Pt. Harvinder Sharma as Guest of Honor. The occasion was also graced by Sh. Sajal Koser, Secretary of Pracheen Kala Kendra, Dr Shobha Koser, Registrar, and Dr Samira Koser, Deputy Registrar, along with distinguished guests including Dr Sanjay Sharma, Bhimsen Sharma, and Dr Sunil Malhotra, who were felicitated for their contributions to the arts.

    A minute’s silence was observed in tribute to Ustad Rashid Khan Sahib before the performances began. At the end of the evening, Kathak Guru Dr Shobha Koser honoured the participating artists.

    The concluding day of Virasat celebrated the rich musical heritage of India, culminating in an energetic display of Punjab’s folk traditions—renowned Chandigarh-based instrumentalist Pt. Subhash Ghosh mesmerized the audience with his performance on the Saraswani, a unique instrument of his creation, blending elements of Sitar, Sarod, and Veena. A disciple of Padma Vibhushan Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, Ghosh Ji, an ‘A’ grade artist of AIR and Doordarshan, opened his recital with Raag Bihag, skillfully weaving Alaap, Jhala, and intricate Layakari, and later paid tribute to Ustad Rashid Khan Sahib through a soulful presentation in Raag Saraswati. His concluding piece—a folk melody of Punjab in celebration of Lohri—was met with thunderous applause, accompanied flawlessly by Delhi’s young tabla sensation Zaheen Khan.

    The evening reached its vibrant climax with a high-energy Bhangra performance under the direction of Peter Sodhi. Dressed in colourful traditional attire, the dancers infused the auditorium with electrifying energy, their rhythmic footwork and dhol beat setting the stage ablaze. The dynamic display of Punjab’s folk spirit left the audience spellbound.

    At the closing ceremony, Secretary of Pracheen Kala Kendra Sh. Sajal Koser, Kathak Guru and Registrar Dr. Shobha Koser, Program Curator Dr. Kavita Thakur, and CSNA Chairman Sh. Sudesh Sharma honoured all participating artists, marking the successful conclusion of Virasat. This festival truly celebrated India’s rich musical and dance heritage.