Indian performing arts has travelled all around the world with support not only from the government but also from corporate bodies that believe in the philosophy that art and philanthropy go hand in hand. Omkar Music Trust in association with Shilpi’s Voice & Visuals is presenting the second edition of Omkar Music Festival, a two-day musical extravaganza on May 10 and 11, at the MLR Convention Centre, Whitefield at 6 pm, in aid of Elderly Care. The event is co-sponsored by YouthPhoriya and Manipal’s American University of Antigua, College of Medicine, with The Hindu as media partner.
Omkar Music Trust was the brainchild of Pandit Iman Das, a vocalist of the Patiala Gharana, an exponent with 18 years of experience in Hindustani classical. “Amongst several human values, the art of expressing gratitude for the generosity that touches our lives, is important. The idea behind the musical stars of Omkar Music Festival singing for the cause of elderly care is to inspire the youth to value their elders,” says Iman Das, who is bringing over stars such as singer Amit Kumar, son of playback singer Kishore Kumar, and his sister Sromona Chakraborty, as well as tabla maestro Ustad Sabir Khan who will be performing with his three sons.
Shilpi Das Chohan, founder-director, Shilpi’s Voice & Visuals says, it’s a great practice to inspire people into supporting causes and encouraging philanthropy even while promoting art. “A major part of the proceeds from Omkar Musical Fest will be shared with our charity partner Omashram Trust Old Age Home,” she says.
Day One of the Omkar Music Fest on May 10 will commence with a song composed and led by Pt. Iman Das accompanied by 70 of his disciples, followed by a panel discussion on music for health and wellness. Other musical stars will include Ankita Kundu Zee Kannada SaReGaMa Little Champion; a duet by Monali Dash, playback singer and Bengaluru Big FM Champion along with flautist Anand PG. Cello player Shankar Sett and his ensemble will present an Indo-Western fusion. It will followed by ‘Forty Fingers of Farukabad’by Ustad Sabir Khan and his sons.
Day Two on May 11 will commence with a dance invocation by Snigdha Sinha, a Bharatanatya exponent who will perform to ‘Ma Meera’ composed by Pt. Iman Das. “I am humbled that the New York Radio in 2018 placed me among the top 100 emerging artistes based on this piece,” he says. A panel discussion on ‘Music for health and wellness’ will follow.
One of the highlights is Aati Rahenge Baaharein, a jugalbandi by Amit Kumar and Iman Das that will have evergreen melodies transcribed into the corresponding ragas.