Dr Muddu Mohan, a retired Indian Administrative Services (IAS) officer and a distinguished Hindustani classical singer, embarks on a new journey to nurture and promote the Indian classical arts. An ardent student of the late Padma Vibhushan awardee Dr. Gangubai Hangal and the celebrated Basavaraj Rajguru, Dr Mohan’s immersion in music began during his childhood in Raichur, his place of origin. From a young age, he displayed an intrinsic passion for Hindustani classical music, and this early exposure has evidently molded his future endeavors.
In addition to his significant journey in music, Dr Muddu Mohan harbors a profound interest in all forms of performing arts. His dedication and passion have led to the creation of the Swara Foundation, a public charitable trust. The key mission of this foundation is to propagate Indian classical dance and music among the younger generation. “As the tagline suggests, Swara is a forum to promote Indian Classical arts,” shares Dr Mohan from his residence in Rajajinagar. Notably, his residence will temporarily serve as the office of Swara Foundation.
Dr Mohan emphasizes that the foundation is not just about promoting the arts but also preserving them in their pure and classical forms. “This endeavor also aims to preserve the arts in their original classical forms,” he adds, highlighting the critical aspect of maintaining the authenticity of these ancient art forms.
Swara Foundation has a multifaceted agenda aimed at fostering classical concerts, both in cosmopolitan areas and rural communities. “We are looking at promoting women and differently-abled artistes, organizing workshops and programs for artists, and bridging the gap between budding and seasoned artistes by forming a learning bridge,” says Dr Mohan. The foundation believes in inclusivity and aims to create a platform that gives opportunities to underrepresented groups in the field of classical arts.
Dr Mohan contends that learning a classical art form demands years of dedication and patience, qualities that are often in stark contrast to the contemporary culture of instant gratification.
. “Learning a classical art form does not give instant results. It takes years of dedication and patience. That is one major aspect we are looking at promoting as the world today is all about instant gratification,” he states, stressing the importance of sustained commitment and effort in mastering classical arts.
The inauguration of Swara Foundation will be graced by the Governor of Karnataka, Thaawar Chand Gehlot. This will be followed by Sangeetotsava & Sanman, a series of classical dance and music programs. The event promises an exciting repertoire, starting with a jugalbandi performance—a duet of different musical instruments—between Shailesh Bhagavat on the shehnai and Rafique Khan on the sitar. This will be followed by a Bharatanatyam dance recital by the gifted Malavika Nair, culminating in a Hindustani vocal performance by Dr Mohan himself alongside the renowned Padmashree Venkatesh Kumar.
Beyond performances, the Swara Foundation’s inauguration will also include a felicitation program to honor dedicated contributors to the world of classical music. Bhairatidevi Rajguru, Vinayak Torvi, and Venkatesh Kumar will be recognized for their invaluable dedication and contributions. “We will also have a felicitation program for Bhairatidevi Rajguru, Vinayak Torvi and Venkatesh Kumar who will be honored for their dedication and contribution to the world of classical music,” reveals Dr Mohan.
The inaugural event labeled as “Sangeetotsava and Sanman” will take place on June 29 at 4 pm at Ravindra Kalakshetra on JC Road. The event is poised to be a significant occasion, marking the beginning of the Swara Foundation’s influential journey. It is noteworthy that the event is open to the public, inviting everyone to experience the rich and diverse heritage of Indian classical arts.
As Dr Mohan leverages his extensive background in Hindustani classical music and his passion for the performing arts, the Swara Foundation stands as a testament to his enduring commitment to cultural preservation and promotion. The foundation reflects his vision to instill patience, dedication, and appreciation for Indian classical arts in the younger generation, ensuring these timeless practices continue to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.
