Over the past two decades, Kolkata-based Kaushiki Chakraborty has established herself as one of the leading Hindustani classical vocalists of her generation. A representative of the Patiala gharana, she is known for her immaculate rendition of khayal and thumri. Her next show in Mumbai will, however, see her in a different setting.
On July 17, Ashadhi Ekadashi Day, she will perform at Bolava Vithal, a concert of Marathi abhangs, at the Shanmukhananda Hall in Mumbai. The event, organised by Pancham Nishad, will also feature vocalists Pt Venkatesh Kumar and Pt Jayateerth Mevundi. Though there are YouTube videos of Chakraborty singing the abhangs ‘Majhe Maaher Pandhari’, ‘Aata Kothey Dhaave Man’ and ‘Kaanada Raja Pandharicha’ (with Mahesh Kale), the interesting thing about the forthcoming show is that she will do an entire segment.
Excerpts from the interview: How did this show materialise, and what preparations are you making? I have followed the Bolava Vithal series for many years, and am aware of the repertoire sung there. I have also worked often with Shashi Vyas of Pancham Nishad, and there is a certain trust he has in me. Of course, in the field of abhangs, I am a newcomer.
Most singers featured in the show earlier have been Maharashtrian or those who regularly sing in Marathi. Artistes like Ranjani-Gayatri have grown up in Mumbai and in that culture. Yet, as classical musicians, we are trained how to learn.
I am a sincere, dedicated student, and I see this as .