A delightful medley of dance, drama and classical renditions

The 31st edition of Dr Vasantrao Deshpande Smruti Sangeet Samaroh had a rich potpourri of musical drama, classical vocal and dance performances. The three-day event organised by South Central Zone Cultural Centre, featured well-known artistes from various parts of the country.
On day one, a shehnai recital was presented by Padma Shri Pt S Ballesh Bhajantri.He started off with Kaise Kaise Kahu in Raga Yaman set in vilambit ektaal. He concluded with Vaishnav Jan Ko in Raag Mishra Khamaj. After that, classical singer Ashwini Bhide Deshpande weaved magic through her renditions including Aali Piya, Sundar Shyam Salone and Badariya Barse Re.
On the second day, a kathak ballet by Nadroop wowed Nagpurians. The graceful act was set against the backdrop of Ramayana. Next in line was classical singer Prasad Khaparde who started with vilambit khayal and drut bandish in raga megh malhar. As a befitting end, he sang his popular thumri - Yaad Piya. The last presentation was by Pt Yella Venkateshwara Rao along with an ensemble of percussionists - Talvadya Kacheri. Pt Rao made the evening memorable for all through his songs such as 'Vatapi Kriti' set in raga hamsadhwani and adi tala.

As a grand finale to the fest, a musical drama titled Dhadila Ram Tine Ka Vani by Mumbai Marathi Sahitya Sangh was staged. Interestingly, the epic play, which was originally written by playwright Bhasa, was revived during the nationwide lockdown. The actor-producer of the play, Pramod Pawar says, "The play has been adapted several times before. But to revive this play again, was our way of looking at the positive side amidst the challenging time. Since everything was shut, including our auditoriums, we gave the script to the actors via mail. We used to connect virtually for the reading sessions. The actors would rehearse for their roles in their respective homes. Despite that, it was amazing to see an impeccable coordination between the artistes when they came together to rehearse in person."