The name Pandit Chatur Lal needs no introduction in the world of Hindustani classical music. This legendary tabla artiste redefined the way tabla is played and created an unforgettable impact on the musical arena. Two fantastic concerts featuring santoor and flute named ‘Smritiyaan’ hosted by Pandit Chatur Lal Society in Ravindra Bharati last week, attracted distinguished audience.
The sublime evening began with a swift santoor performance by Sathish Vyas accompanied by Chatur Lal’s grandson Pranshu Chatur Lal who took the audience on an arduous musical journey. Beginning with evening raag Bhupali’s aalap, Sathish exhibited amazing precision and perfection while playing and evoked amazing aesthetics throughout. His dynamics and playing style was quite exemplary and Pranshu’s varied style of playing taals such as jhap, drut Ek taal was also an impressive display. This rare Bhupali feast was followed by a crisp rendition of raag Janasammodini which was set in Teen taal.
The best was yet to come in the form of flute legend Pt. Hariprasad Chaurasia accompanied by Pt Ram Kumar Mishra on the tabla. The legend has defied age by playing flute with such mastery and taken the entire audience to a new enchanting experience. Beginning with crowd’s favorite Behag, the maestro showed the all-time best Pahaadi as well. The way he interacted actively with the audience is an inspiration to all those budding musicians. He graciously obliged audience’s request and played Vaishnava Janatho and ended the concert on a perfect note.
Commenting on the concert, Hariprasad Cahurasia reminisces, “It is indeed memorable to perform for Pt Chatur Lal for the audience of Hyderabad. Organising such concerts takes up a lot and it is all about respecting the legacy and parenthood. “He also congratulated the young grandson Pranshu for paying homage to such a brilliant tabla player the world has ever witnessed.
Despite the scorching heat of Summer, the audience experience a This event was supported by Ministry of Culture, Government of India and Telangana Tourism.