Associated News Bureau (ANB)
Srinagar, August 25: The Sopori Academy of Music and Performing Arts (SaMaPa), in collaboration with Benu Heritage, concluded its classical music festival in Srinagar on Monday with a grand programme at the Pandit Bhajan Sopori Auditorium, celebrating India’s rich musical traditions and carrying a message of cultural revival from Kashmir.
The festival featured two performances — the first held on August 23 at Delhi Public School, Srinagar, and the concluding programme on August 25 at the auditorium named after the legendary musicologist Pt. Bhajan Sopori.
Santoor virtuoso Pt. Abhay Rustum Sopori, speaking after his performance, said the initiative aimed to bring classical music closer to the younger generation. “We want to create opportunities for music students to interact with great musicians. At the same time, we want to spread a message inviting people to visit Kashmir after the unfortunate Pahalgam terror incident,” he said.
The event featured spellbinding performances by leading Kashmiri artists Munir Ahmad Mir, Waheed Jeelani, and Mohammad Shafi Malik, who captivated the audience with soulful renditions.
Classical vocalist Dr. Padmaja Chakraborty, accompanied by Sonali Roy Chowdhary, presented Raag Gujari Todi, a Kabir doha, and a Kajri. “Kajri is traditionally sung during the rainy season, and that is why I chose to present it before you,” she said, adding that her mission was to popularise classical music among the youth.
Supported as a CSR initiative by Matrix Freight Systems Pvt. Ltd., the festival once again highlighted the enduring legacy of the Sopori family in preserving and promoting Kashmiri culture through music.
