Sitarist Satyanarayan Guru perform at the Indira Gandhi Park in Bhubaneswar. Picture by Ashwinee Pati

Bhubaneswar, Feb. 28: A blend of nature and music left residents of the capital enchanted last evening at a musical programme arranged at the Indira Gandhi Park by the Bhubaneswar Music Circle.

Waves of Hindustani and Odissi forms of classical music mesmerised the visitors to the park. With the stage set just around the fountains in the park and amidst the flower decked lawns, the music created by Sitar player Satyanarayan Guru echoed like poetry in the smooth evening breeze.

The sitarist, who played the evening Raga Kalyan, began with an alaap and then played on a vilambit teentaal, later moving on to drut. He also played a dhun or folk music tune that regaled the audience.

“I was here for a walk in fresh air. But the freshness of musical notes from the sitar energised my soul. This concept of playing live classical music in the park is indeed wonderful,” said Sambit Patnaik, a visitor to the park.

Sitarist Guru said that playing music in the lap of nature was a wonderful experience for him also.

“With the vanishing trees and plants replaced by concrete structures, it becomes monotonous for us to play in closed auditoriums. Natural breeze, fragrance of flowers, the setting sun and rising moon add to the passion of the musician while playing,” he said.

Odissi rendition by vocalist Arjun Charan Samal was another fascinating part of the event. The veteran singer rendered some of the most famous folk songs based on Lord Krishna, presenting Odissi, Chhanda, Champu and Jagannath jananas (bhajans). Everybody present on the occasion, including the youngsters, was thrilled listening to these songs.

“I do not have much idea of classical music, but the music of the violin, flute and mardal, accompanied with the touching rendition by the vocalist was simply magical,” said Bipin Samal, a college student.

Organisers from the Bhubaneswar Music Circle informed that this was the second musical event in the park.

“Initially, we used to organise concerts as Baithak sittings in private drawing rooms. Later, we moved to public auditoriums for the benefit of music lovers in the city,” said Mahendra Misra, general secretary of the music circle.

“Now, we have begun this initiative to promote classical music and reach people of all ages who usually visit parks. Also, musical performances amidst nature has its own charm,” he said.