Gandharva Mahavidyalaya North America (GMV, NA) hosted an enchanting evening with the esteemed vocalist, Indrani Mukherjee, in her concert “Eastern Echoes.” Marking a celebration of Indian classical music, Mukherjee’s performance illuminated the venue with the timeless melodies of ragas, enthralling the audience with her profound vocal prowess, great artistic temperament, and exceptional aesthetic sensibility.
The venue was adorned with traditional Indian motifs, reflecting the cultural richness of the evening’s musical offerings. Among the adornments gracing the stage, a photograph of Pandit V.D. Paluskar, a revered figure in the realm of Indian classical music, stood prominently. This served as a poignant reminder of the rich legacy upon which contemporary artists like Indrani Mukherjee continue to build. Draped gracefully in a resplendent green saree, hair intricately styled in a traditional bun adorned with colossal white and yellow rose flowers, Indrani radiated poise as she took her place in the spotlight alongside accompanying artists. To add a touch of honor and respect to the proceedings, Kalpana and Sanjay Nimkar felicitated the artists for the night and enhanced the atmosphere of the event.
Preceding her performance, Mukherjee congratulated team GMV, NA for their hard work, passion, and dedication for Indian classical music. The evening commenced with raag Multani, a melodic framework characterized by its serene and contemplative mood, that transports listeners into a realm of tranquility and introspection. Indrani presented three compositions in this raag created by her guru, Pandit Arun Bhaduri. Later, she transitioned seamlessly into the uplifting and joyous raag Basant that deeply resonated with the seasonal sentiments and emotions of the audience in the Chicago area, creating a memorable experience. This was followed by two delightful Hori Thumris in the “Purab Ang” (eastern style) that instilled a vibrant energy into the evening. Indrani skillfully navigated the intricate melodic embellishments and rhythmic patterns characteristic of this semi classical genre. In the concluding segment of the concert, she presented a bhajan, followed by a composition in Raag Bhairavi providing a fitting conclusion. With her robust voice, soulful expression and impeccable musicality, Mukherjee filled the venue with her rich resonant tones.
Throughout her mesmerizing performance, Indrani was accompanied by skilled musicians including Apurba Mukherjee, who provided the rhythmic foundation with his deft and nimble fingers on tabla and Praneet Marathe, on harmonium who infused each composition with warmth and resonance. Together this ensemble with their synergy and musical rapport created a unified and captivating musical experience. Additionally, Amol Agarwal and Ashwin Rode graciously supported the vocalist on tanpura, serving as a harmonic backdrop. Ketki Oak Marathe, with her gracious demeanor emceed the concert and brought a touch of warmth to the evening. Ketki’s heartfelt attempt to compliment the vocalist ‘Bengali’ (“with your mesmerizing voice you casted a magical spell on everyone present here today”) is a testimony to the bond created through shared experience of music.
Through soulful renditions and emotive expressions, Indrani invited listeners on a transformative journey of self-discovery and introspection, transcending cultural barriers to unite hearts and minds in a shared appreciation for the power of music. Each note she sang carried the weight of centuries of musical tradition and each piece she presented was a testament to her virtuosity and deep-rooted connection to the spiritual essence of Indian Classical Music. For in “Eastern Echoes,” Indrani Mukherjee left an indelible mark on the souls of listeners that will linger long after the last echoes fade into the night.
– by Sampada Mudgalkar Jatkar
