Lucknow: The second day of a four-day vocal music workshop at Bhatkhande Sanskriti Vishwavidyalaya concluded on a highly inspiring note at the Sujan Auditorium, drawing enthusiastic participation from students, scholars, and faculty members. The workshop, being held from April 15 to 18 under a chair established in memory of Vishnu Narayan Bhatkhande, is being conducted by the university’s Department of Vocal Music.
The sessions are being led by eminent Hindustani classical vocalist Pandit Sajan Mishra, a Padma Bhushan awardee, who is mentoring students through intensive practical and theoretical training. The day began with a formal welcome by programme coordinator and Head of Department Prof. Srishti Mathur, who felicitated the maestro with a bouquet.
During the first two days, Pandit Mishra provided in-depth training on classical ragas, demonstrating compositions and elaborating on nuances of aalap, bol-taan, and emotional expression. On the opening day, he focused on Raag Todi, guiding students through traditional bandishes such as “Raj Darbar,” “Langar Kankariya,” and “Balma Mora Rang Rang Raliya.” The second session explored Raag Vrindavani Sarang, where emphasis was laid on melodic structure and rhythmic presentation.
On the second day, the training centred around Raag Jaunpuri, where students practised both bada khayal and chhota khayal compositions. He also introduced them to tarana and semi-classical forms like “Kashi ke Basaiya,” offering exposure to diverse singing styles. He highlighted the importance of stage presentation, structure of compositions, traditional methods of raga development, and disciplined riyaz.
Interacting closely with participants, Pandit Mishra addressed queries and encouraged students to remain committed to the guru-shishya parampara and continuous practice. He also reflected on the legacy of the Banaras gharana, with which he and his brother Pandit Rajan Mishra popularised Indian classical music globally through their iconic duet performances.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Mandavi Singh stated that the workshop was organised in response to students’ demand and the Academic Council’s decision to invite distinguished artists. She noted that around 15 students are receiving advanced training, while nearly 100 are part of the foundational learning group.
Registrar Dr. Srishti Dhawan underscored that such initiatives not only enhance students’ skills but also contribute significantly to preserving and promoting India’s rich musical heritage.
