Tansen Samaroh 2024: Swapan Chaudhuri, Sanand Nyas Honored

The 100th edition of the Tansen Sangeet Samaroh, one of India’s most celebrated classical music festivals, concluded with grandeur in Gwalior (Dec 15-19, 2024). Organized by Madhya Pradesh’s Culture Department, the festival honored eminent tabla maestro Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri with the Rashtriya Tansen Samman 2023 and Indore-based Sanand Nyas Sanstha with the Raja Mansingh Tomar Samman 2023.

Rashtriya Tansen Samman for Swapan Chaudhuri

Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri, a Padma Shri recipient and tabla virtuoso from Kolkata, received the festival’s highest honor. Instituted in 1980, the award includes a cash prize of ₹5 lakh and a citation plaque. Known for his mastery of the Farukhabad gharana, Chaudhuri expressed gratitude, calling it a crowning moment in his illustrious career. A global icon, he has performed at prestigious venues, collaborated with international artists like Stevie Wonder, and mentored students at the Ali Akbar College of Music.

Raja Mansingh Tomar Samman for Sanand Nyas

Sanand Nyas Sanstha, a cultural organization active in Indore for 35 years, was recognized for its contribution to Indian classical music, drama, and festivals. President Jayant Madhav Bhise and secretary Sanjeev Babikar accepted the award on behalf of the organization, terming it a tribute to art lovers.

Centenary Celebrations and Performances

Held at the UNESCO-recognized Tansen Tomb, the festival featured over 100 celebrated and emerging artists, including Shubha Mudgal, Ritwik Sanyal, and Ronu Majumdar. Highlights included sitar performances by Italy’s Remo Skelo, a tabla recital by Chaudhuri, and classical songs by Aarti Ankalikar Tikekar. Culture Minister Dharmendra Singh Lodhi and other dignitaries participated, emphasizing Tansen’s enduring legacy.

Linking Past and Present

Since its inception, the Tansen Sangeet Samaroh has served as a tribute to Tansen’s contributions to Hindustani classical music. This centenary year symbolized the festival’s evolution into a global platform for Indian classical music while honoring contemporary artists who keep the tradition alive.

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