When two maestros come together to perform on stage, magic happens. An audience of more than 2,000 music lovers were witness to such a magical evening when classical musicians Rashid Khan and Hariharan performed together at Calcutta Club Limited presents Jugal Bandi in association with t2.

Club president Tamal Kanti Mukherjee (inset) promised more musical evenings this year. “I love good music. And most other club members share my passion for classical music. The two legends coming together demanded a full house, which it was,” said Mukherjee.

The musical treat began with solo performances by the duo — while Rashid Khan enthralled with a 40-minute classical recital, Hariharan sang light classical ghazals that worked as a teaser to what was in store towards the last leg of the concert.

The Jugal Bandi started with a classical bandish, and then the duo went on to perform the famous thumri Yaad piya ki aaye as well as the title song of Roja. Their equation on stage seemed very natural and that gave the audience what they wanted — soulful music. Rashid Khan, who had performed at Calcutta Club three years back, said: “We have been performing together for a long time and our combination is quite good because we are from the same gharana. Our gayaki is similar and we understand each other. He (Hariharan) is like my elder brother.”

Text: Farah Khatoon
Pictures: Arnab Mondal