Smritiyaan – Pandit Chatur Lal Festival

Organized by Pandit Chatur Lal Memorial Society and Hindustan Zinc Limited, the 25th edition of Smritiyaan celebrates the legendary Pandit Chatur Lal, the first internationally acclaimed Indian percussionist who introduced tabla to global audiences. This festival honors his pioneering spirit, showcasing a confluence of classical traditions and world music.

A Musical Tribute to the Maestro

This year’s theme, “Echoes Across Continents,” presents an unparalleled fusion of Indian classical and world music, bringing together renowned artists from across the globe.

A Cross-Cultural Collaboration

A highlight of the festival is the mesmerizing duet between Japanese sitarist Tadao Ishihama and Indian percussionist Pranshu Chatur Lal. Their performance beautifully intertwines the subtle elegance of the sitar with the powerful, intricate rhythms of the tabla. This collaboration not only pays homage to Indian classical music but also promotes a dialogue between cultures, reinforcing music as a universal language.

Adding to the evening’s allure is the soul-stirring voice of Vasundhara Raturi, a versatile singer with a golden voice. Having performed since the age of five, she has won accolades across India and abroad. A recipient of honors from the Delhi and Uttarakhand governments, Vasundhara has performed globally, captivating audiences in the UAE, USA, and UK. Recently, she collaborated with Indian Idol 12 winner Pawandeep Rajan, further solidifying her presence in the music industry.

The festival also provides a platform for emerging talent, featuring Neelakshi Sharma from Jaipur, winner of the Zinc Pratibha Talent Hunt, who will showcase her extraordinary skills on stage.

Brahmaand – A Journey into Sonic Cosmos

One of the most anticipated segments of the festival is the introduction of Brahmaand, a groundbreaking musical ensemble that transcends genres and geographical boundaries. Conceived by Pranshu Chatur Lal, this avant-garde band fuses Indian classical elements with contemporary improvisations, offering a fresh and dynamic listening experience.

The ensemble features:

Pranshu Chatur Lal (Tabla) – Grandson of Pandit Chatur Lal, a rising star carrying forward his grandfather’s illustrious legacy.

Dr. Aman Bathla (Piano) – Recognized as the world’s fastest pianist, Bathla adds a contemporary and dynamic touch to the ensemble.

Shubham Sarkar (Violin) – A young maestro who brings fluidity and depth to the composition.

Shounok Banerjee (Ghatam) – A percussionist known for his mastery of the ghatam, blending ancient rhythms with modern beats.

Pranshu Chatur Lal, the Artistic Director of the festival, shares:
"When forming Brahmaand, my vision was to create an ensemble where rhythm and melody merge seamlessly, breaking musical boundaries and fostering a deeper connection between cultures."

Dr. Aman Bathla adds:
"Brahmaand is about showcasing the timelessness of cultural expressions, proving that music has no borders."

Grand Jugalbandi – A Celebration of Classical Music

The festival culminates in a breathtaking jugalbandi featuring two of India's most revered artists:

Padma Shri Bhajan Samrat Anup Jalota – A legend in devotional and ghazal music, whose deep, resonant voice has moved audiences for decades.

Flute Maestro Pandit Ronu Majumdar – An iconic flautist known for his spellbinding renditions of Hindustani classical ragas.

Adding to the grandeur is the iconic father-son duo:

Padma Bhushan Pandit Vishwamohan Bhatt – Creator of the Mohan Veena and a Grammy-winning artist, celebrated for his groundbreaking contributions to Indian classical music.

Pandit Salil Bhatt – A master of the Satvik Veena, carrying forward his father’s legacy while infusing contemporary elements into traditional compositions.

A Legacy That Shaped Global Music Perception

Pandit Chatur Lal’s contributions to music extend far beyond India. A pioneer alongside Bharat Ratna Pandit Ravi Shankar and Ustad Ali Akbar Khan, he was among the first to present Indian classical music to Western audiences in the 1950s. Their concerts gained worldwide recognition, earning Pandit Chatur Lal an Oscar nomination and BAFTA award in 1957.

His artistry played a crucial role in shaping the West’s appreciation of Indian classical rhythms, earning him the title of a cultural bridge-builder. His music was more than an art form—it was an expression of India’s soul.

Conclusion – A Timeless Musical Odyssey

Smritiyaan 2025 promises an unforgettable celebration of classical music, world fusion, and artistic excellence. Set in the enchanting backdrop of Shilpgram, Udaipur, this edition will immerse audiences in a musical experience that bridges generations and cultures, continuing the legacy of Pandit Chatur Lal—a true jewel of Indian classical music.