Purnima ji impressed with a Kathak performance

Flora Parikh

FLUSHING, NY (TIP): Sriniketan Foundation, a 501 (C) (3), non-profit organization founded by Purnima A. Desai in 2015, celebrated its Annual Sangeet Mahotsav – an International Music Festival by internationally renowned artists with a special tribute to Pandit Vishnu Narayan Bhathkhande on October 14. 2023.

The organization is An Abode of Success of Body, Mind & Soul through Various Therapies, geared towards uplifting the cultural heritage and rich treasure of India‘s classical music, dance and natural healing therapy. Each year, the organization showcases the talent of internationally renowned artists and recognizes their phenomenal talent, unrivaled contributions, and dedication to preserving the heritage of Hindustani Classical Music.

At Sangeet Mahotsav 2023, over 47 professionally trained artists showcased a shower of international talent for almost 12 hours nonstop with a divine, mesmerizing experience of healing Ragas, Indian classical dances – Bharatanatyam, Mohiniyattam, Kathak and folk and a heart throbbing special Manipuri performance by our own Vidushi Purnima Desai ji. Their exceptional performances captivated the senses, transporting listeners to realms of bliss and tranquility, captivating the audience with their magnificent performances

The event showcased the rich and cultural heritage of Bharat’s exceptional talent, educating on various ragas, dance forms and festivities, through mesmerizing musical and vocal blessings and a divinely spiritual healing experience. The event was supported and blessed by over 250 music lovers, including Community Leaders, Presidents, Supporters and Well-wishers.

Our special Thanks to our supporters, attendees, well-wishers, dedicated volunteers – Tejal Desai, Flora Parekh, Cynthia & Suresh Ketwaroe, Professor Indrajit Saluja, Rohit Pandya, Vidya Patel, Devendra Vora, Paresh Parekh, Amarnath Banarsi and each and everyone of you for making the event an astounding success year over year.

Starting with Morning Ragas, the program was split into three parts. The first part showcased the sublime and inspiring Instrumental Recital by Anirban Chakraborty (Harmonium), Anirban R. Chowdhury (Tabla), Shankh Lahiri (Tabla) and Eric Fraser (Flute) followed by melodious Vocal by Kasturi Bandopadhyay. A special Manipuri Dance Recital by Vidushi Purnima A. Desai, Sanjib Bhattacharya, Jagannath Lairenjam, Jolly Moni Lairenjam & Chaobithoi Lairenjam Debi

The magic continued to the second part, as the stage lit up with mesmerizing Afternoon Ragas, a special jugalbandi of Pallab Bandopadhyay (Violin) and Shankh Lahiri (Tabla), followed by vocalist Vidushi Kankana Banerjee accompanied by Anirban Chakraborty (Harmonium). Traditionally dressed 23 classically trained dance performers from Chandrika & Lakshmi Kurup Dance Group rocked the stage with truly classical extravaganza combination showcase of Bharatnatyam, Mohiniyattam, Kathak and folk, depicting the various festivities of India.

The musical extravaganza part 3 continued with a story telling Kathak dance performance by Pt. Satya Narayana Charka Dance Group. The Evening Ragas included a special Instrumental Recital by Supratik Sengupta (Sitar), Soumya Chakraverty (Sarod), Anirban R.Chowdhury (Tabla), Sandip Ghosh (Tabla), Naren Budhakar (Tabla) & Rohan Mishra (Sarangi). Internationally famed vocalists Ruchira Panda & Sandip Bhattacharjee led the audience through a soothing evening experience. The organization honored the artists in Recognition of their remarkable Talent and Exceptional performance, enriching the World of Hindustani Classical Music and inspiring many.

The community is truly blessed with the remarkable contribution of organizations like Sriniketan Foundation, gracing us with sublime music and for being an inspiration to aspiring musicians. Sriniketan foundation has been serving the community tirelessly for years educating our younger generation with Monthly Educational & Cultural Events – “Shyama Shyam Shashtriya Sugam Sangeet Sammelan”, training them for Indian classical music, singing and dancing. The organization also offers various services not limited to – Naturopathy, Homeopathy, Basic Yoga, Mantra Therapy, Music Therapy, Laughing Therapy, Kriya Yog, Ayurveda, Meditation, Reflexology, Reiki Therapy, Listening Therapy For Chaitanya – Jagruti (Awareness & Pure Consciousness) and much more.
For additional information visit www.sriniketanfoundation2015.org.

One of the attendees, Mr. Rohit Pandya, who was literally mesmerized by the superb music and dance performances, felt impelled to send to The Indian Panorama his appreciation and comments on the Mahotsav. Here are some excerpts.As the curtain of the grand stage slowly unveiled, the mellifluous notes of a flute, as sweet as honey, began to dance through the air. The melodious tunes, as delicate as a blooming lotus, evoked a sense of tranquility that wrapped the audience in a soothing embrace. The flutist performance, like a gentle zephyr, carried the promise of a day filled with musical magic.

The momentous journey continued as classical dancers, resplendent in vibrant attire, graced the stage with their artistry. Their graceful movements were as exquisite as the petals of a thousand roses, each step echoing the rich traditions of Indian classical dance. Their expressions painted stories of love, devotion, and celebration, captivating the audience’s hearts.

The transition to classical vocal performances was seamless, and the vocalists transported the audience to another realm with their voices that were as ethereal as a monsoon downpour in the desert. Their renditions, passionate and resonant, were nothing short of divine. The words and melodies, like rare jewels, shone brightly in the hearts of the listeners.

The stage then welcomed the maestro of the violin, who painted vibrant ragas that were as vibrant as a peacock’s plumage. The notes resonated with depth and emotion, taking the audience on a journey through the landscapes of classical music. The violinist’s skill and precision were as sharp as a katana blade, creating an exquisite tapestry of sound.

The soul-stirring performance continued with the enchanting strains of the sarod, which were as evocative as a sunrise over the Himalayas. The sarod’s timbre, like liquid gold, flowed through the hearts of the listeners, enveloping them in a cocoon of musical ecstasy. The sitar, played with a finesse that was as delicate as a spider’s silk, followed suit. The artist’s nimble fingers plucked the strings, conjuring melodies as intricate as a spider’s web. The sitar’s resonant tones, like the soft caress of moonlight, filled the air with enchantment. Throughout the performances, the tabla and harmonium provided a rhythmic canvas that was as sturdy as the roots of ancient banyan trees. The interplay of beats and chords was a testament to the synchronicity and harmony that permeated the entire day’s program, binding it together like a string of pearls.

And then, as the day turned to night, the grand finale, a celestial performance, unfolded. The stage seemed to transcend earthly boundaries as artists from different disciplines united to create an otherworldly experience. The music and dance, like shooting stars in the night sky, left the audience spellbound. In the midst of this magical day, the heart and soul of the event was the visionary and dedicated Purnima Dasai, the founder and president. Her passion and commitment to preserving and promoting Indian classical arts were as boundless as the ocean. Her leadership, like the North Star, guided this magnificent event to its zenith.

Purnima Dasai’s unwavering dedication, like a lighthouse in the storm, has illuminated the path for countless artists and enthusiasts, ensuring the continued glory of Indian classical arts. Her vision and tireless efforts have been instrumental in weaving this tapestry of musical and visual splendor. As the event came to a close, the audience rose to their feet, their applause a thunderous testament to the day’s sheer brilliance. Purnima Dasai, a true luminary in the world of Indian classical arts, stood at the heart of it all, radiating with grace and poise. Her name will forever be etched in the annals of classical excellence, and her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.