An Open Air Concert by: Pt. Narendra Datar, Swara Padhye, Rigved Deshpande, Sumant Anantharam
A Musical Evening to Remember:
Swara Siddhi - A Hindustani Classical Concert
Last weekend, I had the pleasure of attending a remarkable Hindustani Classical Music event titled "Swara Siddhi," and it was an experience that deeply resonated with me. Held in a charming backyard in Toronto, this concert was a celebration of classical music, showcasing the immense talent and dedication of two gifted performers, Ms. Swara Padhye and Mr. Narendra Datar.
The Opening Act: Ms. Swara Padhye
The evening began with a graceful and enchanting performance by Ms. Swara Padhye. Despite being a student, Swara displayed an impressive command of classical vocals. Her performance opened with the Raga Jog, a raga known for its deep and serene qualities. Swara's rendition of the bhajan "Bolava Vitthal," originally sung by the revered Smt. Kishori Amonkar was nothing short of blissful. It was incredibly moving to hear a young artist from the Western world connect so profoundly with the traditional sounds of Indian music. Her performance was a beautiful reminder of the universal power of classical music to bridge cultures and evoke deep emotions.
Swara is a disciple of Mr. Narendra Datar, a renowned figure in the classical music industry. Her ability to connect with the audience and convey the essence of her performance was a testament to her exceptional training and natural talent.
The Maestro: Mr. Narendra Datar
Following Swara’s performance, the stage was graced by the illustrious Mr. Narendra Datar. Known for his humility and warmth, Narendra Ji's presence was a perfect blend of simplicity and brilliance. When he began to sing, it became clear why he is so highly regarded in the classical music community.
Narendra ji started with Raga Pooriya Kalyan, which showcased a captivating blend of Pooriya Dhanashree’s greyish-dark pink hues and Yaman Kalyan’s bright yellow tones. The raga’s intricate combination of Teevra Madhyam and Komal Rishabh kept the audience on their toes, particularly during the Druta bandish. His performance was followed by a series of thumris and concluded with the popular “Churiya Karak Gayi” in Bhairavi. Each piece was delivered with a mastery that left a lasting impression.
The Ensemble
Accompanying the singers were the talented Mr. Rigwed Deshpande on Tabla and Mr. Sumant Anantharam on Harmonium. Their accompaniment was not just supportive but added a layer of ornamentation to the beauty of the main performances. Their skillful play enriched the overall experience, making the evening even more memorable.
A Global Connection to Classical Music
Experiencing such high-quality classical singing here in Toronto was profoundly connecting. It’s remarkable to witness the preservation and transmission of such auspicious knowledge and the legacy of our forefathers across continents. Kudos to the singers who have not only maintained but also enriched this ancient tradition, ensuring that classical music continues to touch hearts and inspire audiences far from its place of origin.
The Setting and Sponsorship
The event was generously sponsored by Mrs. Devika Chandorkar, a well-known music enthusiast and real estate agent, and managed by Mr. Harshdev Chandorkar. The concert took place in the backyard of a lovely house, where the weather was just perfect—almost as if the Canadian trees, wind, and sun were eager to partake in the musical celebration. The ambiance was warm and inviting, with around 50-60 attendees enjoying refreshments and the beautiful music.
A Fulfilling Experience
The evening was more than just a concert; it was a journey back to our roots and a refreshing experience for the soul. I deeply value such events and admire the initiative of bringing Hindustani classical music to Toronto. "Swara Siddhi" was a reminder of the timeless beauty of classical music and its ability to connect us across cultures and generations. The dedication of the performers and the quality of their art ensured that the legacy of classical music continues to thrive, touching hearts and enriching lives.
Article by: Pratik Pushkaraj Deshmukh
Kirtan Visharad