Festival opens in Varanasi with Pandit Chaurasia's flute recital

Varanasi

The 102-year-old Sankat Mochan Sangeet Samaroh, a prominent classical music festival, began with a mesmerizing flute performance by Padma Vibhushan awardee Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia. He was accompanied by Sankat Mochan temple's mahant, Vishwambhar Nath Mishra, on the 'pakhawaj.' The festival, held at the historic Sankat Mochan Hanuman temple, started on April 17 and will run until April 21.

This year's six-day event celebrates artistic excellence and spiritual depth, featuring 11 Padma awardees and 16 rising stars. The festival has always been inclusive, with several Muslim artists performing, continuing its tradition of cultural unity. Mishra explained that the festival is not just about music but a way to connect with Lord Hanuman, adding that many listeners have attended for decades.

Starting in 1923, the Sankat Mochan Sangeet Samaroh has evolved from a one-night event to a six-night celebration around Hanuman Jayanti, highlighting Kashi’s rich musical heritage. Iconic performers like Ghulam Ali, Anup Jalota, and Pandit Kishan Maharaj have graced the festival's stage over the years.

This year’s performers include Anup Jalota, Pandit Sajan Mishra, Ustad Akram Khan, and several other renowned artists. Despite its religious roots, the festival is open to all, embracing the universal language of music and fostering cultural harmony.