The stage was set, and the anticipation in the air was palpable as music enthusiasts and connoisseurs gathered for a magical evening presented by HCL Concerts. “Soundscape” was a one-of-a-kind musical extravaganza that promised to take the audience on an unforgettable journey through the mesmerizing world of classical music. The highlight of the event was a soul-stirring performance by the renowned Roohani Sisters, whose captivating melodies were sure to leave the audience enchanted and spellbound.
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Setting the Stage:
The venue came alive with an air of anticipation, as music aficionados from all walks of life eagerly awaited the Roohani Sisters’ performance. HCL Concerts had meticulously curated the event to provide a rich and diverse musical experience, featuring the brilliance of classical music intertwined with contemporary elements, making it accessible to a wider audience.
The Roohani Sisters:
The Roohani Sisters (Jagriti Luthra Prasanna and Neeta Pandey Negi) are synonymous with Sufi music. They have performed Sufiyana qalams, qawwali, Kafi, and ghazals, merging their music with various elements of Indian classical music such as sargams, tans, bol-aalap, layakaari, and bol baant. Both earned their doctorates in Sufi music from University of Delhi. The Roohani Sisters have performed at the International Sufi and Folk Festivals 2016 in Dhaka and Chittagong, Bangladesh, SPIC MACAY, International Sufi Festival in Ajmer, Rajasthan, the MahaKumbh in Haridwar, and the Noida Lok Manch, to name a few.
- Dr. Neeta Pandey Negi has learned Indian Classical Music from Gandharva Mahavidyalaya and Smt. Ketaki Banerjee of Kirana Gharana. She has learned Ghazal Gayaiki from Smt. Charanjeet Soni and at present she is learning Sufiyana Gayaki from Ustaad Iqbal Ahmed Khan, Khalifa of Dilli Gharana.
- Dr. Jagriti Luthra Prasanna has taken her basic Raagdari Taleem from Smt. Ketaki Banerjee of Kirana Gharana. She is learning Indian Classical Music from Pt. Rajan Sajan Mishra of Banaras Gharana. She is learning Sufi and Ghazal Gayaiki from Mushtaq Hussain Khan of Rampur – Sehaswan Gharana.
The Mesmerizing Performance:
As the evening unfolded, the Roohani Sisters took center stage and began their melodious journey. The ambiance was set with the soft notes of the harmonium, accompanied by the rhythmic beats of the tabla. The audience was spellbound as the sisters’ mellifluous voices embraced the hall.
Their repertoire included an array of soulful renditions of timeless Sufi poetry, classic Bhajans, and entrancing Thumris. Each piece was infused with their unique style, blending traditional melodies with contemporary touches, making the experience a harmonious blend of the old and the new.
The Roohani Sisters’ camaraderie on stage was evident as they complemented each other’s nuances flawlessly. With each passing note, the audience was drawn deeper into the world of mysticism and spirituality.
Impact on the Audience:
The Roohani Sisters’ performance affected the audience visibly as the event continued. The mesmerising music had a transformative impact on the audience, generating an environment of peace and reflection. While some people were enthralled by the technical beauty of the classical works, others found themselves submerged in the spiritual essence of the Sufi lyrics.
Conclusion:
HCL Concerts’ “Soundscape” featuring the Roohani Sisters was a resounding success, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended. The evening showcased the unifying power of music, transcending boundaries and connecting hearts through its sheer brilliance. The Roohani Sisters’ magical performance was a testament to the timeless beauty of classical music, which continues to inspire and touch souls across generations.
As the final notes of the evening echoed in the air, the audience stood in awe, grateful for the musical journey they had just experienced. HCL Concerts had once again proven its commitment to promoting and preserving India’s rich cultural heritage, making classical music accessible to a wider audience. And with the ethereal performance of the Roohani Sisters, the night had truly become an unforgettable symphony of sound and soul.
