New Delhi: The evening of Pandit Abhay Rustum Sopori’s Santoor recital at the Humayun’s Tomb Museum Auditorium was nothing short of magical. The captivating ambience he created on stage left a lasting impression, evoking the timeless essence of Tennyson’s poetry that speaks of music as a balm for the soul, lulling it into a serene slumber.
Pt. Sopori began his performance with a sincere introduction, expressing his gratitude for the chance to perform in such a historic setting. He opened with Raag Bhimpalasi, a raga that beautifully captures the essence of late afternoon, known for its reflective and spiritual qualities. His performance commenced with an alaap that gently unveiled the raga’s essence through contemplative, meditative phrases. This was followed by the jod and jhala, which introduced a lively rhythmic complexity. The Santoor’s shimmering tones resonated deeply, perfectly reflecting the emotional richness of the raga, filling the hallowed space of the auditorium with its profound echoes.
With an impeccable mastery of the Santoor, Panditji enchanted the audience, enveloping the space in this cherished folk instrument’s calming and rich tones. His performance seamlessly combined technical prowess with deep emotional resonance, leaving the spectators utterly mesmerized. The maestro showcased the remarkable adaptability of the Santoor by weaving in distinctive elements from his gharana, establishing a fluid conversation between melody and rhythm. A standout moment of his performance was a stunning series of taans that captivated the audience, leaving them spellbound by his exceptional skill.
The collaboration among the artists added significant richness to the performance. Dr Ankit Parikh’s Pakhawaj established a rich rhythmic base, while Zuheb Ahmed Khan’s Tabla introduced vibrant patterns that beautifully complemented the melodic exploration of the Santoor. Meanwhile, Poshali Dutta’s Tanpura offered a steady drone, grounding the entire performance within a cohesive and harmonious auditory experience.
The illustrious legacy of Pt. Abhay Rustum Sopori is deeply intertwined with the esteemed Sufi Gharana of Sopori. Revered as the ‘Saint of Santoor,’ he has played a pivotal role in elevating the Santoor to international acclaim. His exceptional skill with the instrument, combined with a profound grasp of its spiritual significance, transforms his performances into truly enlightening experiences.
Abhay Rustum Sopori highlighted the vital role of preserving classical music traditions and emphasized how instruments like the Santoor contribute to India’s rich cultural tapestry. He went on to discuss the “Sopori Baaz,” a distinctive style that has emerged from his gharana, which focuses on merging instrumental techniques with the subtleties of vocal expression. He illustrated how the Santoor, originally a folk instrument, has been transformed into a classical instrument through complex playing methods that intertwine tantrakari, or instrumental techniques, with gayaki ang, which refers to vocal nuances.
The concert, organized by SPIC MACAY (Society For Promotion of Indian Classical Music and Culture Amongst Youth) and curated by its national vice president Suman Doonga as part of the “Sangeet Sudha” series on February 21, 2025, at Humayun’s Tomb, provided a delightful fusion of rich history and enchanting classical music. The gathering kicked off right on schedule at 4:00 PM, as the hosts greeted the attendees and shared a concise introduction to SPIC MACAY’s objectives, highlighting its dedication to fostering an appreciation for Indian classical music and culture among young people.
The “Sangeet Sudha” event transcended a mere musical showcase, evolving into a vibrant cultural celebration that showcased the enduring allure of Indian classical music. It effectively engaged the audience, particularly the younger generation, fostering a deep connection to India’s illustrious artistic legacy and leaving them feeling inspired and enlightened.
Heartfelt gratitude was also expressed to Dr Kiran Seth, the visionary behind SPIC MACAY, along with the committed volunteers whose efforts were instrumental in the event’s remarkable success. The evening served as a powerful reminder of SPIC MACAY’s dedication to preserving India’s intangible heritage and ensuring that classical arts continue to resonate with and inspire future generations. The Aga Khan Trust for Culture and Sudha Sangini were among the sponsors and collaborators of the concert.
– global bihari bureau
Excellent Article on SPIC MACAY
Association with AgaKhan Trust for Cultural