Indian classical music lovers are in for a multi-sensory extravaganza with Jashn-e-Awadh (Celebration of the Kingdom of Awadh). “It is a contemporary presentation of the golden era of Indian culture that flourished during the reign of Nawab Wajid Ali Shah, who was the last Nawab of Awadh [present Lucknow]," says Jogiraj Sikidar founder of the choir, Malhaar, who are presenting this show.
The show is an attempt to recreate the magic of the famous Lucknow Gharana (seat of learning) through classical music, classical dance and theatre. The concert will bring together various facets of Indian classical and semi-classical musical styles (Thumri, Dadra, Tarana, Hori, Kajri, Chaiti and Ghazal), classical dance form (Kathak), theatre and art to recreate the authentic mehfils (chamber of music) of the Awadhi darbaar (royal court). This creation is amongst the most ambitious and fully-fledged Indian classical concerts to be created in the region so far. The stage will come alive with 50-plus artists from the UAE and India.
Sikidar is a professional whose love for Indian classical music, was instrumental in bringing together the members of the first Indian classical music choir Malhaar in the UAE in 2009. The members who are marketing/sales professionals, media persons, graphic artists, architects, copywriters and business development executives by day, unleash their musical prowess working round-the-clock for this non-profit organisation to enhance the cause of music So far the choir has performed five thematic concerts. Their first major production was Rooh-e-Ishq, which unravelled the mystical world of Sufism. Describing their gruelling schedule that runs parallel to their corporate lives, Sikidar says, “We go through rigorous rehearsal sessions that start in the early evening hours and go on till midnight and beyond. In fact before any major production, we rehearse 18x7 and eat, drink and sleep music."
The thought and presentation of the concert is original and Sikidar usually visualises the presentation as an audio-visual treat for his audience. Researchers and copywriters generally take control of the communication material. Malhaar has also been fortunate to tap the right talent to enhance its productions. The theatre script is always penned by a seasoned and talented theatre person – Prakash Soni. The choreography for Jashn-e-Awadh is being done by Vaishali Mhaisalkar, who is a Kathak exponent. Sikidar feels that all those who have been sceptical about the great pool of talent in the UAE need to come and watch this spectacular show.
Details
- When February 25, 26
- Where Ductac, Centrepoint Auditorium, Mall of the Emirates
- How Tickets are priced at Dh50, Dh70. For more information call 050 521 9668 or log on to facebook.com/malhaar.choir
