Experience the Heartfelt Tribute: Sitar Ramarao Utsav 2025 Concert for Pandit N.R. Rama Rao Featuring Shubha Mudgal and Saskia Rao-de Haas
In November 2024, the Sitar Ramarao Utsav will commemorate the legacy of late sitar maestro Pandit NR Rama Rao with a concert led by his son, Pandit Shubhendra Rao. This year’s festival promises an exquisite lineup of performers, including Padma Shri awardee Shubha Mudgal, renowned Dutch cellist Saskia Rao-de Haas, and tabla virtuoso Ishaan Ghosh, complemented by the harmonium skills of Pandit Sudhir Nayak.
Shubhendra Rao announced that the inaugural Lifetime Achievement Award will be presented to Dr. P. Sriram, managing director of the Bangalore Kidney Foundation, recognizing his significant contributions to society and unwavering support for the arts. He expressed the importance of celebrating his father’s journey, marked by his selfless dedication to both the sitar and the cultural fabric of Karnataka. “This event unites my father’s family and disciples worldwide in honoring his life and accomplishments,” Shubhendra said, highlighting his father’s recognition with prestigious awards, including the Karnataka Rajyotsava Award and the T Chowdiah Award.
Saskia Rao-de Haas, celebrated for her invention of the Indian cello, is eager to showcase “the magic of pure Hindustani classical music.” Settled in New Delhi with her husband, Shubhendra, she reflects on the influence of the Maihar Gharana in her musical journey. “I’ve spent years exploring both the intricate vocal styles of Khyal and the meditative depth of Dhrupad,” she noted, adding that the concert will take audiences through a cherished repertoire that resonated with her late father-in-law. She emphasized the impact of her father-in-law’s choice to abandon a secure engineering career to pursue classical music, a decision that continues to inspire her work.
Shubha Mudgal, an esteemed figure in Hindustani classical singing, will present selections from the Khayal and Thumri-dadra forms, drawing on her multi-decade journey in music. Reflecting on her first-generation musician status, Mudgal expressed gratitude for her family’s support, which empowered her to delve into her artistic passions. However, she also acknowledged the ongoing challenges women face in the music industry. “While I have found encouragement, there are still many instances of women being exploited and treated unfairly, and these realities cannot be overlooked,” she stated.
Saskia specifically highlighted her anticipation for Mudgal’s performance of “Madhuvanti,” a composition created by her husband and set to be performed by his family and disciples. “It’s a beautiful tribute that the sitar ensemble brings to life magnificently,” she remarked, emphasizing the collaborative spirit behind the festival.
The Sitar Ramarao Utsav will take place on November 28 at 6 PM at the Chowdiah Memorial Hall in Bengaluru. Tickets are available through Bookmyshow, adding to the excitement surrounding this influential event celebrating the enduring impact of one of India’s musical legends.
This festival stands not just as a tribute, but as a vital platform for honoring the past while nurturing the future of Indian classical music.
Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/music/sitar-ramarao-utsav-returns-in-bengaluru-with-performances-by-shubha-mudgal-saskia-rao-de-haas/article70289468.ece
Category : Music
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Publish Date: 2025-11-17 13:14:00
