As the vibrant festival of Deepavali approaches, Hyderabad is set to enjoy a musical treat with a special concert event that promises to enthrall music aficionados. The city will play host to renowned classical vocalist Sanjeev Abhyankar, who will be performing as part of Swar Deepawali, an eagerly anticipated concert organized by the city’s own Tatvaa Arts. Designed to elevate the festive spirits, this concert provides an opportunity for music lovers to kickstart their Sunday morning with soul-stirring melodies, slated for October 27 at the Botanical Gardens, Kondapur, beginning at the break of dawn.
Sanjeev Abhyankar, a name synonymous with excellence in classical music, is no stranger to the Hyderabad audience, having been gracing the city with his presence since 1986. Firmly believing in the affinity and appreciation that Hyderabad has consistently shown towards his music, Sanjeev expresses his deep connection with the city. “Hyderabad audiences are familiar with me and my singing; they love me,” he says, indicating the warm reception he always receives here.
The festivities of Deepavali provide a perfect backdrop for a concert that aims to capture the essence of positivity and optimism. According to Sanjeev, the general mood during Deepavali significantly enhances the success of musical concerts. “The mood during Deepavali is positive. This happy and optimistic mindset of the audience plays a big role in the success of the concert,” he observes. Indeed, as one of the most cherished festivals in India, Deepavali brings with it a spirit of joy and hope, mirrored in the musical offerings that audiences can expect during the event.
The Swar Deepawali concert will be a blend of traditional and devotional music, structured into two distinct parts. The first segment will feature classical music, exhibiting the intricate and emotive depth of this rich art form. This is a segment that promises to delight aficionados of classical music, drawing them into a world of ragas and compositions that have stood the test of time.
. Following this will be the devotional segment, which will include an array of Marathi abhangs and bhakti songs. These will include compositions by revered saints such as Sant Ramdas and Tukaram, alongside devotional works by Mira Bai and Guru Nanak. Through these sacred melodies, Sanjeev aims to transport the audience into a realm of spiritual ecstasy and introspection.
As a disciple of the legendary classical vocalist, Pandit Jasraj, Sanjeev holds a special affinity for Hyderabad. He reminisces about the city’s unique cultural landscape, where both Carnatic and Hindustani classical music thrive. “The city is unique as it has both Carnatic and Hindustani classical music lovers,” he notes, appreciating the broad musical sensibilities prevalent among the local audiences. This dual appreciation makes Hyderabad a fertile ground for artists like Sanjeev, who endeavor to nurture and expand the classical music traditions. Moreover, Hyderabad holds sentimental value for him, owing to its significance in the life of his esteemed guru. “My guru, Pandit Jasraj ji, had a special place for Hyderabad as his father, Pandit Maniram’s childhood, was spent there,” Sanjeev reflects, indicating the deep-rooted connections that make his performances here all the more meaningful.
Tatvaa Arts, known for its dedication to promoting the arts and culture in Hyderabad, has made this concert open for all, ensuring that music lovers from all walks of life can partake in the celebration of sound and spirit. As anticipation builds for this one-of-a-kind musical event, Hyderabad’s rasikas—keen music enthusiasts—can look forward to a morning filled with classical compositions and devotional hymns that capture the festive essence of Deepavali.
The engagement promises to be not only an auditory feast but also a celebration of the cultural ethos of a city that warmly embraces the richness of its musical heritage. As the date of the concert approaches, one can only anticipate the joy and reverence that Sanjeev Abhyankar’s melodies will inspire, setting the tone for a memorable Deepavali celebration.
