Performing in front of a crowd for the first time. And that too, an ancient form of music, is not easy. ANSHIKA AJMERA was all ears

Om sa…re…ee…clearing her throat, Sunita Amin, from Bangalore, a Drupad singer and disciple of Drupad guru, Zia Fariduddin Dagar, was ready for her debut performance at the Samanvai art gallery on Sunday. Sanjay Agle, Pakhawaj player from Indore, played in sync with the debutant.

Director, Samanvai art gallery, Reeta Kuhad, and Shelja Khaitan, introduced the performers. Taking over, Sunita said, “I learnt Hindi only in the last eight years, so pardon any mispronunciations.” 

Carrying forward the conversation, she shared her joy of being in Jaipur, the place where Dhrupad was extensively played before Independence. “There have been different people who have led and brought me where I am today,” she said.

Beginning with Kaushik Dhwani, she enthralled the audience with her powerful voice, transporting all present to a different world. 

To check out how many in the audience were hypnotised, we caught hold of some. “Her performance was very good. Dhrupad is a dying art and I can remember only Dagar as a Drupad singer. But this singer was captivating. I don't know much about classical music but any kind of music that soothes my ear is music for me,” said Beena Kak, tourism minister, who was there to encourage the performer.

Feeling immensely relaxed, Archana Surana, director, Arch academy said, “I had a long day at work but now I feel completely charged. I am ready to brave another day.” For entrepreneur Mahavir Sharma, the performance was good. 

“I was nervous but I am thankful to my gurus who rigorously trained me to perform faultlessly. And my family who has been supportive throughout,” she said. 

“Dhrupad is spiritual seeking. It's to induce feelings of peace and contemplation in the listener.” The audience would vouch for that!

Anshika Ajmera/ DNA-Daily News & Analysis Source: 3D Syndication