Mumbai to celebrate Holi with 3rd Fagunotsav's musical concerts

The third edition of Fagunotsav will be held at Veer Savarkar Auditorium in Mumbai's Dadar (West) on March 23.

Holi epitomises the vibrancy of colors, and what superior method to commemorate this occasion than by immersing oneself in the hues of Indian classical music? Enthusiasts of this musical tradition are invited to partake in the third instalment of Fagunotsav, a tribute to Phalguna (the month synonymous with Holi festivities).

The event is a celebration of Indian customs, welcoming the onset of spring and the agricultural harvest period. Featuring a selection of carefully chosen ragas, the event promises a lively exploration of our cultural legacy at the Veer Savarkar Auditorium in Dadar, Mumbai.

Pandit Kumar Bose on Tabla.

Organised and hosted by the Dhaani Music and Cultural Foundation, an NGO, a charitable entity committed to safeguarding and advancing Indian classical music, the occasion will showcase an impressive roster of performers such as Kathak exponent Pandit Rajendra Gangani, tabla virtuoso Pandit Kumar Bose, renowned singer Pandit Raghunandan Panshikar, Santoor expert Pandit Ranjeet Pathak, and tabla specialist Pandit Ajeet Pathak. Providing musical support to these talents will be instrumentalists Vinayak Netke, Sandeep Mishra, Siddhesh Bicholkar, and Manoj Desai.

Pandit Bose says, “I am deeply honoured to be a part of Fagunotsav, a celebration that not only showcases the brilliance of Indian classical music but also pays homage to the vibrant spirit of our cultural heritage. Through this festival, we aim to transport the audience into a realm of sublime beauty and rhythmic ecstasy.”

Kathak exponent Rajendra Gangani.

Talking about the relevance of the event, Pandit Panshikar adds, “Spring is not just a season; it’s a metaphor for renewal and rejuvenation. Fagunotsav embodies this spirit, offering a platform for artistes to weave melodies that resonate with the essence of the season. I am thrilled to be a part of this celebration of life and music.”

Vocalist Pandit Raghunandan Panshikar.

Pandit Pathak feels that the “santoor has a unique ability to evoke the colours and fragrances of spring”. He shares, “In Fagunotsav, we strive to harness this power to create an immersive musical experience that transports the audience to the blooming landscapes of our imagination.”

Santoor player Pt. Ranjeet Pathak.

Pandit Gangani goes on to share how Kathak is his medium to “celebrate life’s rhythms and emotions." He says, “As we come together for Fagunotsav, let us revel in the joy of movement and melody, ushering in the season of abundance and growth.”

Pandit Ajeet Pathak on Tabla.

Fagunotsav will be held at Veer Savarkar Auditorium, Dadar (West), Mumbai, on March 23, from 4.30 pm to 10.30 pm