Satnam Singh Ahluwalia, chairman of IHA Foundation, hosted a mesmerising evening of Gurmat Sangeet, titled Gurmat Raag Darbar, on August 5 at Jamuna Banquets. The event showcased the traditional ragas of Gurmat Sangeet. It was an evening that touched the hearts of all attendees, leaving them immersed in the divine essence of soul-stirring music.
Gurmat Sangeet is a unique musical tradition that is five centuries old, and Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, began the tradition along with Bhai Mardana, travelling around Asia and the Middle-East spreading the divine message of one loving God. The Gurmat Raag Darbar was much more than a conventional musical evening; it was a heartfelt tribute to the profound heritage of the music. The IHA Foundation’s aim was to create an atmosphere of contemplation and spiritual connection through the power of music.
The highlight of the evening was Alankar Singh, an eminent name in Gurmat Sangeet and the esteemed head of Gurmat Sangeet Department and chair at Punjabi University, Patiala. Singh’s performance was nothing short of magical, as he skillfully rendered the age-old ragas, transporting the audience to a state of spiritual bliss. Accompanying Singh were two talented musicians who further enriched the evening’s experience. S. Sandeep Singh, a virtuoso on the Dilruba, added a beautiful melodic layer to the ragas, enhancing the overall texture of the performance. Additionally, S. Narinderpal Singh showcased his expertise on the tabla.
The event drew a diverse audience from cross sections of the society, including music connoisseurs, scholars, and music students. In attendance were consul generals, and people from different walks of life.
“Music is a divine pathway that unites hearts. We are thankful to Satnam Singh Ahluwalia whose initiative allowed us to display to the people of Calcutta through the timeless tradition of Gurmat Sangeet, and communicate them the divine message, creating an inseparable bond between the audience and the spiritual essence of our musical heritage,” said Alankar Singh.