Artists
Artist Bio
Pandit Vinod Lele is a distinguished tabla maestro, revered for his exceptional skill and profound understanding of Indian classical rhythm. With years of rigorous training under the guidance of eminent gurus, he has mastered the art of tabla, blending technical precision with deep emotional expression. Pandit Vinod Lele’s performances are marked by their intricate rhythmic patterns, lightning-fast finger work, and the ability to create a captivating dialogue between the drums.
His tabla playing is characterized by a perfect balance of tradition and innovation. Whether he is accompanying classical vocalists, instrumentalists, or dancers, or performing solo, Pandit Vinod Lele adds a rich and dynamic layer to the music, enhancing the overall experience for the audience. His deep knowledge of the various gharanas (schools) of tabla playing allows him to bring a unique and versatile approach to his performances, making him a sought-after artist at prestigious music festivals and concerts both in India and abroad.
Beyond his performances, Pandit Vinod Lele is a dedicated teacher, passionately imparting his knowledge to students around the world. He has mentored numerous budding tabla players, ensuring that the rich tradition of the instrument continues to thrive. As Pandit Lele once beautifully expressed,
“The tabla is not merely a percussion instrument; it is the pulse of the music, the heartbeat that brings every melody to life.”
Artist Bio
Pandit Vinay Mishra is a distinguished harmonium virtuoso, revered for his profound mastery and deep understanding of Indian classical music. He serves as an Assistant Professor in the Music Department at Lakshmibai College, University of Delhi. Trained by eminent gurus such as Ustad Mehtab Khan and Pandit Appa Sahab Jalgaonkar in the rich traditions of Hindustani classical music, Mishra has developed a unique style that combines technical precision with soulful expression. Additionally, he has learned the Gaya-Darbhanga style of harmonium from Pandit Sanjay Guha Ji. His performances on the harmonium are known for their fluidity, intricate melodies, and the ability to evoke deep emotions, making him one of the foremost exponents of the instrument in contemporary times.
Pandit Vinay Mishra’s music is characterized by its delicate balance of tradition and innovation. He skillfully weaves complex ragas with subtle improvisations, creating a captivating experience for his audiences. Mishra has performed at prestigious music festivals and events across India and around the world, where his harmonium solos and accompaniments have been highly acclaimed for their depth and artistry.
Beyond his performances, Pandit Vinay Mishra is also a dedicated educator, committed to nurturing the next generation of musicians. He actively teaches and mentors students, ensuring that the rich legacy of the harmonium continues to thrive. Reflecting on his musical journey, he once remarked…
“The harmonium is more than an instrument; it is a vessel through which the soul speaks in the language of music.”
Artist Bio
Pandit Partho Sarathy Chaudhuri is a distinguished sarod maestro, known for his exceptional skill and deep understanding of Indian classical music. Trained under the legendary Ustad Dhyanesh Khan and Ustad Ali Akbar Khan, Pandit Partho Sarathy has developed a unique style that blends traditional purity with innovative expression. His mastery over the sarod is evident in his ability to convey the intricate emotions and nuances of Indian ragas, making his performances a profound musical experience.
Pandit Partho Sarathy’s music is characterized by its rich tonal quality, precision, and emotional depth. His command over the instrument allows him to explore the full spectrum of human emotions, from the meditative to the ecstatic, taking listeners on a spiritual journey. He has performed at some of the most prestigious music festivals in India and abroad, earning accolades for his soulful renditions and technical brilliance.
In addition to his performances, Pandit Partho Sarathy is also a dedicated teacher, mentoring students and passing on the rich legacy of the sarod to the next generation. His contributions to Indian classical music have made him a revered figure in the world of music. As he beautifully puts it,
“The sarod is not just an instrument; it is a bridge between the artist and the divine.”
Artist Bio
Uday Bhawalkar is a distinguished Dhrupad vocalist, celebrated for his profound mastery of one of the oldest forms of Indian classical music. Trained under the legendary Ustad Zia Fariduddin Dagar, Bhawalkar has devoted his life to preserving and propagating the ancient tradition of Dhrupad. His music is characterized by its meditative quality, deep introspection, and an unyielding commitment to the purity of the raga. Bhawalkar’s performances are a journey through the intricate nuances of classical music, where each note is a step closer to spiritual awakening. His serene and contemplative style of singing invites listeners to connect with the deeper aspects of their consciousness, making his performances not just a musical experience but a soulful one.
Over the years, Uday Bhawalkar has performed at numerous prestigious music festivals both in India and abroad, earning acclaim for his ability to convey the profound emotional depth of Dhrupad. His dedication to this art form goes beyond performance; he is also a passionate educator, teaching students the intricacies of Dhrupad and ensuring the continuity of this ancient tradition. Bhawalkar’s contributions to Indian classical music have cemented his place as one of the foremost exponents of Dhrupad in the modern era.
“Dhrupad is not just music; it is a meditation, a prayer, a path to the divine.”
Artist Bio
Pandit Vinod Lele is a distinguished tabla maestro, revered for his exceptional skill and profound understanding of Indian classical rhythm. With years of rigorous training under the guidance of eminent gurus, he has mastered the art of tabla, blending technical precision with deep emotional expression. Pandit Vinod Lele’s performances are marked by their intricate rhythmic patterns, lightning-fast finger work, and the ability to create a captivating dialogue between the drums.
His tabla playing is characterized by a perfect balance of tradition and innovation. Whether he is accompanying classical vocalists, instrumentalists, or dancers, or performing solo, Pandit Vinod Lele adds a rich and dynamic layer to the music, enhancing the overall experience for the audience. His deep knowledge of the various gharanas (schools) of tabla playing allows him to bring a unique and versatile approach to his performances, making him a sought-after artist at prestigious music festivals and concerts both in India and abroad.
Beyond his performances, Pandit Vinod Lele is a dedicated teacher, passionately imparting his knowledge to students around the world. He has mentored numerous budding tabla players, ensuring that the rich tradition of the instrument continues to thrive. As Pandit Lele once beautifully expressed,
“The tabla is not merely a percussion instrument; it is the pulse of the music, the heartbeat that brings every melody to life.”
Artist Bio
Sandip Mallik is a renowned Kathak dancer, celebrated for his dynamic stage presence and deep-rooted connection to the classical traditions of Indian dance. From childhood Sandip is under the guidance of Guru Smt. Srilekha Mukherjee. He was associated with Pt. Birju Maharaj ji. Sandip did riyaz and received talim of rhythm under tabla maestro Pt. Kumar Bose. Trained under the guidance of illustrious gurus, he has mastered the intricacies of Kathak, blending rhythm, grace, and storytelling into each of his performances. Mallik’s dance is characterized by its flawless footwork, expressive abhinaya (acting), and intricate spins, which together create a mesmerizing experience for audiences.
Sandip Mallik’s approach to Kathak is both traditional and innovative. While he remains deeply committed to the classical roots of the dance form, he is also known for his creative choreography that resonates with contemporary audiences. His performances, whether in solo recitals or group productions, are celebrated for their emotional depth and technical brilliance. Mallik has graced the stages of prestigious dance festivals across India and abroad, earning accolades for his artistry and dedication.
In addition to his performances, Sandip Mallik is a passionate teacher, sharing his knowledge and love for Kathak with the next generation of dancers. His contributions to the field have made him a respected figure in the world of Indian classical dance. As he eloquently puts it,
“Kathak is not just a dance; it’s a dialogue between the dancer and the divine.”
Artist Bio
Pandit Vinay Mishra is a distinguished harmonium virtuoso, revered for his profound mastery and deep understanding of Indian classical music. He serves as an Assistant Professor in the Music Department at Lakshmibai College, University of Delhi. Trained by eminent gurus such as Ustad Mehtab Khan and Pandit Appa Sahab Jalgaonkar in the rich traditions of Hindustani classical music, Mishra has developed a unique style that combines technical precision with soulful expression. Additionally, he has learned the Gaya-Darbhanga style of harmonium from Pandit Sanjay Guha Ji. His performances on the harmonium are known for their fluidity, intricate melodies, and the ability to evoke deep emotions, making him one of the foremost exponents of the instrument in contemporary times.
Pandit Vinay Mishra’s music is characterized by its delicate balance of tradition and innovation. He skillfully weaves complex ragas with subtle improvisations, creating a captivating experience for his audiences. Mishra has performed at prestigious music festivals and events across India and around the world, where his harmonium solos and accompaniments have been highly acclaimed for their depth and artistry.
Beyond his performances, Pandit Vinay Mishra is also a dedicated educator, committed to nurturing the next generation of musicians. He actively teaches and mentors students, ensuring that the rich legacy of the harmonium continues to thrive. Reflecting on his musical journey, he once remarked…
“The harmonium is more than an instrument; it is a vessel through which the soul speaks in the language of music.”
Artist Bio
Samanwaya Sarkar is a renowned sitarist celebrated for his exceptional performances and mastery in traditional Indian classical music. Recognized with the National Award and the President’s Award, Samanwaya has also earned an A grade from All India Radio and Doordarshan.
Musical Training and Influences:
- Samanwaya’s early music education began with Pt. Sasanka Bandopdhyaya of the Senia gharana, followed by extensive training under Pt. Manilal Nag (12 years), Pt. Shyamal Chatterjee (9 years), and Pt. Kumar Prasad Mukherjee (6 years), from Bishnupur, Senia Maihar, and Agra Atrauli Gharana respectively.
- He further refined his skills under the guidance of the legendary Padma Vibhushan Girija Devi, mastering khayal, thumri, tappa, dadra, and jhula, which he seamlessly integrates into his sitar performances.
- Throughout his musical journey, Samanwaya received constant support from his father, Sri Swapan Kumar Sarkar, who was a student of Sri Lalit Mohan Sanyal, a senior disciple of Ustad Bade Ghulam Ali Khan.
Career Highlights:
- Samanwaya has performed extensively across India at prestigious venues and festivals, including Swar Mangesh Festival (Goa), Sawai Gandharva Sangeet Mahotsav (Pune), and Saptak (Ahmedabad), Swar Samrat Festival (Bangalore).
- His international presence includes performances at the Sitar Festival (Russia), Sharq Taronalari International Music Festival (Uzbekistan), and WOMAD (UK), Elbphilharmonie (Germany), Theatre De La Ville (Paris), Mananan International Music Festival (Isle of Man), Sitar Festival (Russia) etc.
Awards and Recognitions:
- 69th National Film Award for “Girija: A Lifetime in Music” (2018)
- Person Who Cares for Art of the East People” by the Sharq Taronalari International Music Festival, supported by UNESCO (2019)
- Golden Statuette of Bravo International Award, Moscow, Russia (2024)
Notable Contributions - Samanwaya co-directed the documentary “Girija: A Lifetime in Music,” which received national and international acclaim.
Artist Bio
Debapriya Adhikary, an illustrious and award-winning vocalist, stands as one of India’s premier classical musicians. Renowned for his elegant and grand singing style, Debapriya’s silken voice and masterful control over octaves have captivated audiences worldwide. Debapriya’s musical journey began under the guidance of his mother, Smt. Anita Adhikary, a disciple of Pt. Jivnath Jha. He further honed his skills under Pt. Samaresh Chawdhury of Senia Gharana, Pt. Kumar Prasad Mukherjee of Agra Atrauli Gharana, and Pt. Vijay Kichlu. His artistic prowess flourished under the tutelage of the legendary Padma Vibhushan Girija Devi of Benaras Gharana, mastering various forms such as thumri, tappa, dadra, kajri, and jhula.
A graded artist of All India Radio, his performances transcend listeners into realms of emotional excellence, making him a revered figure in the classical music domain.
Debapriya’s repertoire includes solo and duet performances with Samanwaya Sarkar, blending vocal and sitar traditions. Notably, he composed and performed music for the Australian film “The Sleeping Warrior,” and directed the acclaimed documentary “Girija: A Lifetime In Music,” which won multiple awards, including the National Award for Best Documentary on Art and Culture. He has also received the National Award by the President of India as well as many other important accolades. His albums include- Samvaad, Silk and Raushan Raushan all of which have gotten international acclaim.
Artist Bio
At the early age of three, the musical child prodigy was placed under the tutelage of his father Shri Amal Patitundi a well-known tabla player of Kolkata, a senior disciple of tabla maestro Pandit Sankha Chatterjee. Debjit continued to nurture his passion diligently from Pandit Sankha Chatterjee for several years and thereafter he had been continuing his lessons from the eminent tabla maestro Pandit Subhankar Banerjee.
Debjit is a regular performer in the major music festivals in India and abroad.
He has performed in the Darbar Festival, Sacrees Jourees World Music Festival in Strasbourge, World Music Festival in Madrid, Coast Road World Music Festival in England, India By The Bay Festival in Hongkong, Swara Samrat Festival in Kolkata, Bengal Classical Music Festival in Bangladesh and etc.
He had performed in Spain, Israel and Qatar, tours conducted by Ministry of External Affairs Govt. of India.
Debjit is an A graded artist of All India Radio and Doordarshan.
Debjit is the recipient of many prestigious awards
- President Gold Medal from the Government of India.
- He has been awarded with the State Academy Award by the Government of
West Bengal. - Pandit Nikhil Ghosh award from I.T.C Mumbai.
- Pandit Prasun Banerjee Award.
Artist Bio
Madhurjya Barthakur is a gifted tabla maestro, renowned for his extraordinary skill and deep understanding of Indian classical rhythm. Trained under the tutelage of esteemed gurus, Barthakur has mastered the intricate art of tabla playing, bringing a perfect blend of precision, creativity, and emotional depth to his performances. His command over the instrument allows him to explore a wide range of rhythmic patterns and improvisations, making each performance a unique and captivating experience.
Barthakur’s tabla playing is distinguished by its clarity, speed, and intricate compositions. Whether accompanying vocalists, instrumentalists, or dancers, he adds a rich rhythmic texture that enhances the overall musical experience. His solos are equally compelling, showcasing his technical brilliance and deep connection to the traditional forms of Indian classical music. Madhurjya Barthakur has performed at prestigious music festivals and venues across India and internationally, earning acclaim for his dynamic stage presence and virtuosic playing.
Madhurjya Ranjan Barthakur started his training under the renowned tradition of ‘Gandha Bandhan’ of Indian Classical music under the legendary Ustad Munne Khan of the Farukhabad Gharana. He has also learned from his father and Guru, eminent musicologist Dr. Dilip Ranjan Barthakur who was also a disciple of Ustad Munne Khan Sahab.
In addition to his performances, Madhurjya Barthakur is a dedicated teacher, passionately imparting his knowledge to students and ensuring the continuation of the tabla tradition. Reflecting on his journey, he once said,
“The tabla is not just an instrument of rhythm; it is the heartbeat of music, connecting every note and emotion in perfect harmony.”