Attended concert of Ravindra Chary (Sitar) accompanied by Satyajit Talwalkar (Tabla) organized by Anubhooti at India Social and Cultural center, Abu Dhabi, on 30th May 2014.
Raag of the concert was Raag Yaman.
First Raviji presented Aalap, Jod, Chanda and Jhala. Followed by Gat composed by Ustad Shahid Paevez in Rupak taal.
He then presented a very old Bandish from Kirana gharana in Teen taal.
Composition of Ustad Wahid Khan (grandfather of Ustad Shahid Parvez) was next presentation.
From there they entered seamlessly into Sawal-Jawab (सवाल-जवाब). The artists got a standing ovation for it.
Finally he switched to light music and played dhun (धुन). It was a medley of Assamese, Rajastani, Afghani dhuns.
Raviji is an excellent Sitar player and he demonstrated his finess and command. I came to know that he is an equally good harmonium player. His humility was evident when he expressed gratitude that a top artist like Satyajit is accompanying him and appreciated the hospitality of Anubhooti.
Raviji drew first applause within a minute of starting the concert. And the applauses continued till the end. He has composed a special Bandish on the day of concert in Raag Yaman and titled it 'Anubhooti' in honor of the organizers. It was a privilege, however he forgot to play it. Audience was disappointed.
Satyajitji demonstrated why he is considered one of the foremost tabla exponents today. His economy of movement fascinated me. He played a bouquet of variations with bal (बल) on different bol (बोल). This was a learning experience for students of Tabla. He also drew repeated applauses.
Both artists were visibly enjoying playing with each other and that doubled the joy of audience. People congratulated the artists and organizers. Audience was not ready to come out of the mood for a long time.
Sounds system was optimum. With four programs going on at the same time sound engineer was stretched.
A magical concert. It was an Anubhooti (अनुभूती).
Entertainment rating 9.75/10.
Disclaimer: I am a founder member of Anubhooti.
