New Delhi– The hallowed halls of Kamani Auditorium resonated with melody and patriotism last evening as the Pandit Chatur Lal Memorial Society presented the 28th edition of Amar Jyoti, a musical homage to the valour of India’s armed forces. The concert, held annually as a tribute to the Army, Navy, and Air Force, once again reaffirmed its place as one of the capital’s most cherished cultural offerings.
The evening opened with solemnity and reverence before unfolding into a celebration of India’s classical tradition. Audiences were spellbound by the presence of Padma Vibhushan Pandit Hari Prasad Chaurasia, whose bansuri carried an ethereal power—each note invoking both serenity and pride. Accompanying him was tabla virtuoso Ustad Rashid Mustafa Thirakwa, who brought depth and dynamism to the performance, creating an atmosphere steeped in devotion and artistry.
Adding a youthful dimension to the stage, the ensemble Brahmaand – The Universe captivated audiences with a fresh yet rooted soundscape. Conceptualised by Pranshu Chatur Lal on percussion, the group featured Shounok Banerjee (Ghatam), Rohan Prasanna (Sarod), and Zaki Ahmad (Vocals). Their set was marked by inventive compositions that blended tradition with innovation.
The journey began with Carpe Diem, a meditative invocation inspired by Raag Desh, which evoked monsoon skies and the spirit of freedom. Saraswati followed, a lyrical exploration where sarod, vocals, ghatam, and tabla conversed seamlessly, culminating in a playful jugalbandi. The finale, Vande, emerged as a confluence of diverse styles and instruments—an evocative dialogue that concluded in a collective crescendo, celebrating unity in diversity.
For the organisers, the evening was more than a concert. “This is our humble offering to the soldiers who guard our freedom with their lives. For us, music is not just art—it is gratitude in its purest form,” said Shruti Chatur Lal, Artistic Director of the Society. She added, “Every edition of Amar Jyoti reminds us that patriotism is not confined to words or rituals—it can also be expressed through the universal language of music, which touches the heart beyond boundaries.”
Pandit Charajit Chatur Lal, Secretary of the Society, echoed the sentiment: “For almost three decades, Amar Jyoti has been a sacred homage, inspiring pride and reverence in every listener.”
Representing the younger voice, Pranshu Chatur Lal added: “Amar Jyoti is not only about remembering our soldiers but also about showing how music evolves with time, keeping its soul intact while connecting with today’s audiences.”
Founded in memory of tabla wizard Pandit Chatur Lal, the Memorial Society continues its mission to preserve India’s classical heritage while providing a platform to young talent. With this edition of Amar Jyoti, the Society once again wove together patriotism and artistry, leaving the audience with a shared sense of pride, gratitude, and cultural enrichment.