Malhaar, the UAE’s largest Indian music ensemble is organising a unique music and meditation retreat in the Himalayas that is open to all music lovers. The retreat will be held from June 30 to July 8 at a luxurious resort in the Himalayas, near the picturesque lake town of Naukuchiatal, located at an altitude of 4,700 feet above sea level in the Uttaranchal state of north India.
Jogiraj Sikidar, the founder and director of Malhaar says, “We want to invite everybody who is interested in learning the nuances of Indian classical and semi-classical music, enhancing their music skills, or using musical meditation as a therapy. Our vision is to create a holistic experience for participants where they can embark on a journey of self discovery through music and meditation in the mystical surroundings of the Himalayas and be rejuvenated with guided musical meditations, yoga by the lake, serene mountain walks, wholesome organic food and much more.”
“The resort we have chosen overlooks a tranquil lake and offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the snow capped Himalayas. But during the monsoon the lush greenery, colourful flora and fauna, and waterfalls flowing down the mountain slopes make it even more spectacular. The vibrations will enthrall the spiritual seeker and it will be the perfect time to learn about monsoon raagas such as Malhaar,” he adds.
The retreat will be led by Professor Rita Ganguly and Sikidar. Professor Ganguly is a renowned Thumri and ghazal singer, kathak and khathakali dancer, actress, theatre director, and arts educationist. She has trained with maestros such as Begum Akhtar, Siddeswari Devi and Shambhu Maharaj, and has been honoured with several prestigious awards. Sikidar is a Hindustani classical vocalist and music trainer, whose gurus include Professor Ganguly, Kankana Banerjee and Pandit Mani Prasad. The programme includes workshops on subjects such as thumri, ghazal, taal and Indian classical theatre; early morning sessions that combine meditation and activation of chakras with morning raagas; excursions to the surrounding villages, lakes and forests; screening of documentaries about famous Indian musicians; and fun music sessions around a bonfire in the evenings.
The cost of the retreat is Dh8,500 per person, and includes flights between Dubai and Delhi, train and car journey from Delhi to the Himalayan resort, twin sharing accommodation in cottages, and meals.
For more information write to malhaar.choir@gmail.com
Jyoti Kalsi is an arts-enthusiast based in Dubai.
