46th Chandigarh Sangeet Sammelan: Captivating Performances by Mallick Brothers and Dr. Kamla Shankar

The second day of the 46th Annual Chandigarh Sangeet Sammelan, organized by the Indian National Theatre at Strawberry Fields High School, Sector 26, was graced with stunning performances from renowned artists. The classical vocalist duo, Pandit Prashant and Mallick (known as the Mallick Brothers), captivated audiences with their soulful singing, while the esteemed Indian classical slide guitarist Vidushi Dr. Kamla Shankar mesmerized listeners with her unique style. The event began with a warm welcome from Indian National Theatre President Anil Nehru, setting the tone for a night of unforgettable music.

The Mallick Brothers, celebrated exponents of the Darbhanga Gharana, began their recital with an Aalap in Raag Marwa, moving into the Chautaal composition, Bansi Natwar Bajaye, much to the delight of the audience. Their soulful Shiv Stuti, Jake Mrig Chhal Take, in Chaar Taal, and the final performance, Om Maa Saraswati E Saraswati in Raag Saraswati, left the hall filled with reverence and admiration. As representatives of a musical lineage over 450 years old, the Mallick Brothers continue to uphold the legacy of Dhrupad music. Under the guidance of their father, Professor Pandit Mallick, and their grandfather, the legendary Pandit Vidur Mallick, they have become highly acclaimed artists on All India Radio and Doordarshan.

Vidushi Dr. Kamla Shankar, an iconic figure in Indian classical slide guitar, began her set with Raag Jog, presenting Aalap, Jod, and Jhala, then two compositions in Vilambit and Madhya Teen Taal. Her concluding piece, a beautiful rendition in Raag Mishra Pilu, showcased her mastery of the slide guitar and left a lasting impression. Known as the first prominent female Indian classical slide guitarist, Dr. Kamla Shankar has developed a distinct style, embodying the “gayaki ang” (vocal style) with an expressive, soulful touch. Her training under Dr. Shivnath Bhattacharya and Padma Bhushan Pandit Chhannulal Mishra has added versatility to her repertoire, covering styles like Thumri, Kajri, and bhajans.

Accompanied by Vinod Lele on tabla, Paromita Mukherjee on harmonium, and Gaurav Shankar Upadhyay on pakhawaj, the performers created a memorable evening for all. Open to the public with free entry, the event drew a large audience, smoothly managed by Ustat Bal, leaving an enduring impression on Chandigarh’s music lovers.