In a spectacular showcase of cultural convergence, the classical Jugalbandi series, Uttar Dakshin, unfolded its enchanting melodies at the Jawaharlal Nehru Architecture and Fine Arts University (JNAFAU) auditorium in Masabtank on Saturday. As part of its six-city tour spanning Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Bangalore, Ranchi, and now Hyderabad, the 13th edition of Uttar Dakshin aimed to celebrate the rich diversity of North and South Indian music.
Presented by Vivid Arts in collaboration with Surmandal, Hyderabad, and with generous support from LIC of India and ONGC, the concert featured a mesmerizing duet with this year's Grammy Award Winner, Rakesh Chaurasia, on the flute, and the illustrious Carnatic virtuoso, Dr. Jayanti Kumaresh, on the Saraswati Veena. Their soul-stirring solos were followed by a captivating Jugalbandi, weaving a musical tapestry that left the audience spellbound.
Accompanying these maestros on stage were a lineup of accomplished artists, including Narahari on tabla, Vidwan Jayachandra Rao on the mridangam, and Vidwan Giridhar Udupa on the ghatam. Together, they added depth and richness to the melodic interplay, creating a harmonious fusion of two distinct musical traditions.
Before the concert commenced, a heartfelt homage was paid to the late Pankaj Udhas ji, a stalwart in the classical music world. Rakesh Chaurasia commenced the evening with Raag Poorva Kalyan, immersing the audience in a captivating flute recital and Jugalbandi. Remembering Mohan Hemmadi, Chaurasia expressed how his recent passing was a great loss to the classical musical world.
Following this, Dr. Jayanti Kumaresh took the stage with her solo Veena recital, presenting the melodious Raag Amritha Vashini, a composition that welcomed rain and echoed the rich cultural heritage of South India.
Uttar Dakshin's 13th edition promised a celebration of musical diversity, bringing together the distinct styles of two masterful artists. The evening commenced with the musicians guiding the audience on an unforgettable musical odyssey, fostering regional harmony between North and South India. This edition continues the tradition of spreading musical joy and cultural unity, exemplifying the series' commitment to transcending boundaries through the universal language of music.