The sixth day of the iconic Saptak Annual Music Festival in Ahmedabad witnessed a historic convergence of India's classical traditions, embodied in the extraordinary performance of veteran violinist N Rajam. At the age of 88, Rajam, with her Carnatic lineage and Hindustani training, delivered a recital that was celebrated as the 'Song of India' itself, captivating a dedicated audience who braved the winter chill for a night of sublime artistry.
A Musical Journey from Chennai to the Heart of Hindustani
Born in Chennai, N Rajam received her initial training in the South Indian Carnatic tradition. Her musical journey took a definitive turn under the tutelage of her guru, the legendary Pandit Omkarnath Thakur, who hailed from Bhadran in Gujarat. Thakur, a revered figure in India's classical music pantheon, nurtured Rajam's Hindustani sensibilities, shaping her into the 'queen of Hindustani octaves' she is known as today. This fusion of her southern roots and northern grooming created a unique artistic identity that was on full display at the Ahmedabad festival.
Day 6: A Mid-Festival Masterpiece
Day 6 of the 13-day Saptak festival marked a pivotal midpoint, akin to the 'jod' in a raga—a bridge between contemplation and crescendo. Organizers deemed it a musically fulfilling day with an excellent response. The spotlight, however, was firmly on Rajam's evening performance. Saptak secretary Sandeep Joshi expressed awe at her command, stating, "At the age of 88, Rajam-ji's command of the violin is extraordinary. There is a rare magic in her playing that mesmerizes listeners."
Her repertoire for the night was particularly noteworthy. She presented Raga Bageshree Kanada for the first time at this year's festival, a rendition described as deeply evocative. Her performance of Raga Khamaj was also highlighted as outstanding. The concert stood as a symbolic 'sam'—the inaugural and concluding beat of a cycle—representing the unity of India's diverse classical streams within the framework of the Gujarat-created Saptak festival.
The Evening's Grand Finale: Tejendra Narayan Majumdar
The final baithak (session) of Day 6 featured a remarkable sarod recital by Tejendra Narayan Majumdar. He commenced with a majestic Darbari Kanada, exploring the aalap and jod, before moving into a meticulously structured gat in Gunji Kanada. This composition served as a dynamic launchpad for his improvisations, providing a powerful conclusion to the day's musical offerings.
With the festival's spirit running high, rasikas (connoisseurs) are set to endure Ahmedabad's winter cold to experience the complete journey, awaiting the grand 'sam total' of classical joys when the festival concludes on Day 13.
