post news network, Bhubaneswar, April 15: Numerous artists of the cultural body Ragamala, sung Hindustani classical songs, in an attempt to not only promote classical music, but also depict Oriya culture and heritage through those, during the 5th Hindustani Shastriya Sangeet Mohatsav-2015, organised at Soochana Bhawan in the city, Wednesday.
As many as 50 artists of this cultural body took part in the classical music extravaganza that created a sense of synergy in the audience. The show begun with the welcome song in raga Kalyan performed by the students of Ragamala and followed by another raga-based song.
Soon after, several other classical songs were sung by various eminent artists of the city. “Here, I am performing the Hindustani classical song ‘Tero Suno Brijoraj’ based on raga Bhairabi and taal Kaharwa. Now-a-days, classical music has been overshadowed by the western music and culture. I am privileged to be a part of the movement to preserve Oriya culture,” said Shree Acharya, a vocalist.
Apart from the singers, several experts in classical musical instruments mesmerised the audience through their performance based on different taal and ragas. Guru Shree Haramohan Khuntia played table, a solo
performance.
The founder of Ragamala, Guru Rajanikant Padhi, who has dedicated his life to promote shastriya sangeet all over the state said, “This is our desire to promote our Oriya culture through classical songs. Today, people of the city can get a glimpse of classical views during our programme. We have been trying to do our best to uphold Oriya culture and heritage through such classic shows. Besides, it is a platform for the budding artists, who can show their talents here. I believe, my students will continue to uphold our heritage,” said Padhi.
In addition to the musical performances, noted artists in the field of music Shantanu Mohapatra and Adikand Padhi were felicitated during the programme. While Shantanu is a well-known music directed of Orissa, Adikand is famous for playing violin.