Life, business startups and Gardening

 I decided to pursue terrace/balcony gardening as a hobby few years back. Over the time I realized that the skills and strategies needed in maintaining and growing a small balcony garden were analogous and similar to the ones needed in setting up and growing “ventures”. 

Here are 7 points where I found glaring similarities:

1) Choosing right kind of plants and pots for your space based on sunlight and climate
 Life — Choose your battles, Choose your work based on your liking and skills
 Startup — Choose the right market segment and right solution that sells
 
2) Right watering, not letting the key nutrients water down.
Life — Focus on strengths
Startup — Focussed investment, avoid overspending

3) Appropriate and just enough nutrition for right growth and survival during harsh times
Life — Invest in skills, learning and security
Startup — same as in life, invest in long term growth, have backup and cushioning

4) Cutting down (pruning) the unessential branches and growths
Life — Cut Overspending on luxurious life style, unessential life needs
Startups — Do not diversify too much, keep focussed, channel all efforts and investments in focussed areas of strength

5) Grooming the plant right for the favorable blooming time
Life — Be proactive, ready and quick to grab every opportunity, be vigilant
Startups — Prepare and be ready for every day for leveraging on opportunity for growth and scaling

6) Appreciating and enjoying whichever flowers bloom
Life — Appreciating and enjoying small successes and milestones is energy boosting
Startups — As in life and family, appreciating milestones, successes and celebrating as a team is critical for startup growth and gelling of team

7) Keeping a persistent and disciplined approach and daily, weekly, monthly routine.

Life and Startups are very similar to gardening here .. Persistence, discipline, caring, patience and regularity makes you fit, ready and strong to take up a challenge or an opportunity

The analogies for each of these activities in all three domains are obvious and relatable to entrepreneurs and startup co-founders like myself. My observations and the inferences I have arrived at are serendipitous but worth a second look. I am sure that these seven “tests” could serve as surrogate markers towards ability of an entrepreneur / founder or even for a leader to succeed in a venture. 
I tend to post some of the pictures of my “urban apartment gallery garden” on my Facebook page. Check them out here.. https://www.facebook.com/PVBhave/photos

Collation of my daily clips of the Home Gallery Garden over 2 months period in 2026 , spring and early summer ( March -April ) 

Happy gardening ! Have a great life!

Shree Sankat Mochan Sangeet Samaroha 2026

 Two classical music festivals that I am glued to live all night are: 

1) Shree Harivallabh Sangeet Sammelan ( held in last week of December every year)

2) Shree Sankat Mochan Sangeet Samaroha ( held in April after Shree Hanuman Jayanti)

This year I was particularly impressed with the lineup and the presentations. From April 6th 2026 to April 11 2026, I attended (on line) almost every presentation all night long. The festival typically begins around 7.30pm and continues all night till around 7.30am the next day. There are around 67-8 performers every night. 

The "maahol" of this festival held in Varanasi's Sankat Mochan Hanuman mandir premices is unique. The vibes of attending the festival live at the premises is irreproducible in online format, however for a connoisseur of classical music enjoying the performances online (thanks for live streaming on YouTube) is a consolation.

Last six nights I have attended all performances at the Sankat Mochan Sangeet Samaroha 2026, live online from Varanasi. All six nights were an experience and I enjoyed every moment of every performance thoroughly. This could be the best way to start my summer vacation. The daytime was occupied by the food, sleep and evenings with IPL 2026 games along with the World Chess Candidates Tournament streaming from Cyprus! The first week of my vacation has proved to be busier than most of my other working times!!

The lineup of the festival was impressive (as always):

दिनांक 06 अप्रैल 2026 (सोमवार) – प्रथम रात्रि

1 रूपवाणी संस्था की प्रस्तुति| चित्रकूट नृत्य नाटिका (वाराणसी) – निर्देशक: व्योमेश शुक्ल

2 पं० राहुल शर्मा| संतूर (मुंबई)

पं० राम कुमार मिश्र| तबला (दिल्ली)

3 सुश्री विद्या लाल| कथक (दिल्ली)

श्री उदय शंकर मिश्र| तबला (वाराणसी)

श्री मोहित साहनी| गायन (वाराणसी)

श्री सिद्धांत चक्रवर्ती| सितार (वाराणसी)

श्री अंकित मिश्र| सारंगी (वाराणसी)

4 श्री एस आकाश| बांसुरी (मुंबई)

श्री यदनेश रायकर| वायलिन (मुंबई)

श्री ईशान घोष| तबला (मुंबई)

श्री गिरधर उडप्पा| घटम् (बेंगलूरु)

5 विदुषी मालिनी अवस्थी| गायन (लखनऊ)

पं० शुभ महाराज| तबला (दिल्ली)

पं० धर्मनाथ मिश्र| संवादिनी (लखनऊ)

श्री विनायक सहाय| सारंगी (जालंधर)

6 श्री राहुल मिश्रा| एकल तबला (दिल्ली)

श्री मोहित साहनी| संवादिनी (वाराणसी)

7 पं० हरविंदर शर्मा| सितार (चंडीगढ़)

उस्ताद अकरम खां| तबला (दिल्ली)

8 सुश्री शिखा भट्टाचार्या| कथक (कोलकाता)

श्री उदय शंकर मिश्र| तबला (वाराणसी)

श्री मोहित साहनी| गायन (वाराणसी)

श्री सिद्धांत चक्रवर्ती| सितार (वाराणसी)

श्री अंकित मिश्र| सारंगी (वाराणसी)

दिनांक 07 अप्रैल 2026 (मंगलवार) – द्वितीय रात्रि

1 पं० यू राजेश| मैण्डोलिन (चेन्नई)

पं० शिवमणि| ड्रम (चेन्नई)

2 पं० विश्व मोहन भट्ट| मोहन वीणा (जयपुर)

श्री सलील भट्ट| सात्विक वीणा (जयपुर)

पं० रामकुमार मिश्र| तबला (दिल्ली)

श्री कौशिक कंवर| तबला (गुवाहाटी)

3 श्री जरगाम अकरम खां| तबला जुगलबंदी (दिल्ली)

श्री खुर्रम अली नियाजी| तबला जुगलबंदी (दिल्ली)

श्री मोहित साहनी| संवादिनी (वाराणसी)

श्री अमान खां| सारंगी (कोलकाता)

4 उस्ताद गुलाम अब्बास खां| गायन (मुंबई)

उस्ताद अकरम खां| तबला (दिल्ली)

पं० धर्मनाथ मिश्र| संवादिनी (लखनऊ)

श्री विनायक सहाय| सारंगी (जालंधर)

5 पं० शुभ महाराज| एकल तबला (दिल्ली)

श्री मोहित साहनी| संवादिनी (वाराणसी)

6 पं० कुशल दास| सितार (कोलकाता)

पं० संजू सहाय| तबला (लंदन)

7 पं० रतन मोहन शर्मा| गायन (मुंबई)

पं० शुभ महाराज| तबला (दिल्ली)

पं० धर्मनाथ मिश्र| संवादिनी (लखनऊ)

दिनांक 08 अप्रैल 2026 (बुधवार) – तृतीय रात्रि

1 पं० उल्हास कशालकर| गायन (पुणे)

श्री ओजश प्रताप सिंह| सह गायन (पुणे)

पं० सुरेश तलवलकर| तबला (पुणे)

पं० विनय मिश्र| संवादिनी (दिल्ली)

2 पं० विवेक सोनार| बांसुरी (मुंबई)

पं० शुभ महाराज| तबला (दिल्ली)

3 विदुषी जसपिंदर नरुला| गायन एवं सहयोगी कलाकार (मुंबई)

4 विदुषी कौशिकी चक्रवर्ती| गायन (कोलकाता)

श्री आर्धिक बनर्जी| तबला (कोलकाता)

उस्ताद मुराद अली खां| सारंगी (दिल्ली)

श्री ज्योतिर्मय बनर्जी| संवादिनी (कोलकाता)

5 पं० देवशीष भट्टाचार्य| गिटार (कोलकाता)

पं० संजू सहाय| तबला (लंदन)

6 पं० महेश काले| गायन एवं सहयोगी कलाकार (मुंबई)

7 पं० अलोक लाहिडी| सरोद जुगलबंदी (कोलकाता)

श्री अभिषेक लाहिड़ी| सरोद जुगलबंदी (कोलकाता)

पं० समर साहा| तबला (कोलकाता)

दिनांक 09 अप्रैल 2026 (गुरुवार) – चौथी रात्रि

1 पं० देवज्योती बोस| सरोद (कोलकाता)

पं० कुमार बोस| तबला (कोलकाता)

श्री रोहेन बोस| तबला (कोलकाता)

2 श्री कृतिया नरसिंह राणा| ओडिसी (मुंबई)

3 पं० यू राजेश| मैण्डोलिन (चेन्नई)

पं० राजेश वैद्य| सरस्वती वीणा (चेन्नई)

पं० ओजश अधिया| तबला (मुंबई)

श्री मोहन रामन| मृदंगम् (बेंगलूरु)

4 पं० अनूप जलोटा| गायन (मुंबई)

पं० प्रदीप घोष| तबला एवं अन्य कलाकार (कोलकाता)

5 पं० सतीश व्यास| संतूर (मुंबई)

पं० आदित्य कल्याणपुर| तबला (मुंबई)

6 पं० अजय पोहनकर| गायन (पुणे)

पं० संजू सहाय| तबला (लंदन)

पं० धर्मनाथ मिश्र| संवादिनी (लखनऊ)

श्री विनायक सहाय| सारंगी (जालंधर)

7 पं० जयतीर्थ मेउंडी| गायन (धारवाड़)

श्री पांडुरंग पवार| तबला (धारवाड़)

पं० विनय मिश्र| संवादिनी (दिल्ली)

श्री विनायक सहाय| सारंगी (जालंधर)

दिनांक 10 अप्रैल 2026 (शुक्रवार) – पंचम रात्रि

1 पं० राम मोहन महाराज| कथक (लखनऊ)

पं० संजू सहाय| तबला (लंदन)

श्री आरिफ खां| गायन (लखनऊ)

श्री विनायक सहाय| सारंगी (जालंधर)

श्री सिद्धांत चक्रवर्ती| सितार (वाराणसी)

2 पं० तेजेन्द्र नारायण मजुमदार| सरोद (कोलकाता)

पं० कुमार बोस| तबला (कोलकाता)

3 पं० रोनू मजूमदार| बांसुरी (मुंबई)

श्री ऋषिकेश मजुमदार| बांसुरी (मुंबई)

श्री रोहेन बोस| तबला (कोलकाता)

4 विदुषी कंकणा बनर्जी| गायन (मुंबई)

पं० समर साहा| तबला (कोलकाता)

श्री मोहित साहनी| संवादिनी (वाराणसी)

5 उस्ताद मस्कूर अली खां| गायन (कोलकाता)

श्री बिलाल खां सोनावी| तबला (कोलकाता)

पं० धर्मनाथ मिश्र| संवादिनी (लखनऊ)

श्री विनायक सहाय| सारंगी (जालंधर)

6 श्री अमरेंद्र मिश्र| सितार (वाराणसी)

पं० शुभ महाराज| तबला (दिल्ली)

7 श्री अनिरुद्ध भट्टाचार्या| गायन (कोलकाता)

श्री सुब्रत दण्डपंत| तबला (कोलकाता)

श्री मोहित साहनी| संवादिनी (वाराणसी)

8 श्री अभिषेक व्यास| मकरंद वीणा (उज्जैन)

श्री अंशुल प्रताप सिंह| तबला (मुंबई)

दिनांक 11 अप्रैल 2026 (शनिवार) – छठवीं रात्रि

1 पं० रतिकांत महापात्रा व श्रीमती सुजाता महापात्रा| ओडिसी एवं सृजन संस्था (भुवनेश्वर)

2 श्री मेहताब अली नियाजी| सितार (दिल्ली)

श्री ईशान घोष| तबला (मुंबई)

3 विदुषी कलापिनी कोमकली| गायन (देवास)

श्री रामेन्द्र सिंह सोलंकी| तबला (देवास)

पं० धर्मनाथ मिश्र| संवादिनी (लखनऊ)

श्री विनायक सहाय| सारंगी (जालंधर)

4 श्री शिराज अली खां| सरोद (कोलकाता)

श्री ए बद्री नारायण पंडित| तबला (वाराणसी)

5 पं० अभय रुस्तम सोपोरी| शततंत्री वीणा (दिल्ली)

पं० संजू सहाय| तबला (लंदन)

6 पं० हरीश तिवारी| गायन (दिल्ली)

पं० विनोद लेले| तबला (दिल्ली)

पं० धर्मनाथ मिश्र| संवादिनी (लखनऊ)

श्री विनायक सहाय| सारंगी (जालंधर)

7 उस्ताद शाकिर खां| सितार (पुणे)

पं० अनिंदो चटर्जी| तबला (मुंबई)

8 पं० साजन मिश्र| गायन (दिल्ली)

श्री स्वरांश मिश्र| गायन (दिल्ली)

श्री ईशान घोष| तबला (मुंबई)

पं० धर्मनाथ मिश्र| संवादिनी (लखनऊ)

श्री विनायक सहाय| सारंगी (जालंधर)

Each and every performance was worth attending as the performers were filled with emotional as well as a kind of spiritual energy. I liked all the performances of all 6 nights however there were some noteworthy names that need mention. 

To summarize the festival:

On day 1 (night) I was impressed by the performances of Yadnesh Raikar (violins) and the trio. On day 2, Pt Vishwamohan Bhatt, on day 3, Mahesh Kale, on day 5 Pt Tejendra Narayan Majumdar and Ut Masgur Ali Khan impressed me. On final night of day 6 Pt Abhay Rustom Sopori and Pt Harish Tiwari were my favorites. 

For me, Day 4 ( all night performances) was the best of the days with very emotional Pt Anup Jalota ji and Pt Jayteerth Mewundi, Pt Ajay Pohankar, Pt Satish Vyas.

Ut Akram Khan was outstanding in his Tabla accompaniment and impressed me as one of the complete Tabla player be it solo or accompaniment. 

Here is the link to the playlist of Shree Sankat Mochan Sangeet Samaroha 2026.. enjoy it in full the way I enjoyed over last 6 nights!

Jai Shree Hanumaan Jai Shree Raam ! 

Har Har Mahaadev ! 

Marwa-llous

With the arrival of November, my playlist typically turns towards "Multani" and the twilight raags of the evenings.  Marwa, Gauri, Shree, Puriya, Puriya Dhanaashree, Purvi and also Paraj and Vibhaas (Marwa ang) 

This post of mine could be linked in continuity with my earlier posts of: 

2018 on Purvi-Paraj axis 

2018 -Vibhaas 

2024: Marwa Puriya Sohoni. 

Marwa, as a raag is unique. It flaunts all the exceptions to the classical theory of "raagdari" of Hindustani Classical Music. The alpatva (avoidance) of the "shadaj" or the base note is the most important exception from other raags. That haunting of shadaj without completely resting on it, is what imparts Marwa its "Marwallous" personality. 

Marwa depicts the masculine longing or yearning (विरह), that is different from the feminine longing, hence the exception of relationship between "Vaadi" (komal rishabh) and "Samvaadi" (Dhaivat) being Shadaja-Gandhaar instead of the rule of either Shadaja-Pancham or Shadaja-Madhyam that is observed in most raags in classical music. This also explains why Marwa sounds apt in male voice than female. 

There is longing, yearning and also a passive aggression in Marwa unlike other evening / twilight raags. The melancholy in Marwa is due to that longing for "shadaj" that eventually it touches upon briefly, The chalan of Marwa, makes its passive aggression prominent. 

For me, Marwa of Ut Rashid Khan is a gold standard. Pt Vasantrav Deshpande was fondly called "Marwa" among classical singers. His Marwa seems more aggressive with the faster pace. 

My go to bandish of Marwa is of the classic Sadarang : 

काहूकी रीत कोऊ करे सखी री

मीत पिहरवा वो जो कहियो

सो सो सब अपने मन की 

हूं अधीन तन मन धन तुम्हरे

तुम तो मेहेरबान सबके

सदारंग पर रंग बरसायो 

Ut Rashid Khan sings it beautifully and brings the essence of "marwalleous" Marwa. 

The bandish  aptly features in the biopic movie of Pt Vassantrav Deshpande, 

Marwa is a raag that speaks more with its silences, pauses and between the "Shrutis" . Putting in words the grandiose philosophy is impossible a task. It has to be experienced like the ALMIGHTY! 

One complete Marwa of Ut Rashid Khan : 

Navratri : Musical tribute to the nine forms of Goddess Durga

 Navratri is a nine-days (and nights) festival held in honor and celebration of the divine feminine power- Shakti. Navratri is dedicated to the worship of goddess Durga and her nine forms, each symbolizing different qualities such as strength, wisdom, courage, devotion, and protection. During these nine days, people pray, fast, and participate in traditional music and dance. Navratri festival is celebrated all over India but is specially a huge celebration in the states of Gujarat and West Bengal.

Navratri, or the Divine Nine Nights, is a time of deep rest and rejuvenation. Each day is dedicated to one of the nine forms of the Mother Divine. The final day, the 10th day, is called Vijayadashami, the day popularly celebrated as the day of the victory of good over evil.

Classical musicians have paid their obeisance to the power of feminine power of Durga and Kalika through some o the compositions that have become inseparable from this festival season. 

We start with Pt Jasraj, rendering "Mata Kalika" set to Raag Adana 

The duo of Pt Rajan-Sajan Mishra sing their trademark bhajan "Jai Jai Jai Durge" set in Raag Durga 

Pt Venkatesh Kumar produces his magic by his rugged simplicity in Raag Durga with  "Mata Bhavani Kali"

We conclude this blog with a beautiful raagmala by Sawani Shende set in Raag Durga with names of the Goddess and also the names of raga that they are sung in. 

Here is the playlist on YouTube : Durge Bhavani 

The Wonder Years: Malgudi Days-Swami and Friends, Lampan

 

Recently I came across a series on Sony Liv called Lampan. This is based on Marathi stories by a writer named Prakash Narayan Sant, written in 1960s. I watched all the 8 episodes in binge mode and realized how these stories about boy named "Lampan" had glaring similarities to that of "Swami" of Malgudi Days and that with "Kevin" of Wonder Years. 

I understand that "Lampan" series has been dubbed in many other Indian languages and has gained popularity in most. There is a reason for it.. the nostalgia of childhood memories, is language or culture independent! Everyone tends to relate to these stories of childhood and likes to immerse in that good nostalgic feel.. of old days and young hearts!

Swami and Friends of Malgudi Days by R K Narayan has been a classic and everyone including me were enamored by the character. Malgudi days by R K Narayan might be the first English book that I had read in school. I clearly remember that this book was my prize after wining the interhouse "Declamation" and "Hindi poem recitation" competitions at school!

There is a common thread between "Lampan" and "Swami" of Malgudi days that catches us all. The innocence of childhood and the wonderful memories that soothes mind and soul.  I put the American series Wonder Years in this chain and feel that there is a common thread in these three coming of age stories about a child, viewed retrospectively, told by a narrator who has experienced this childhood .. the childhood of almost each of us.. the Wonder years of life. 

The American series "Wonder Years" depicts the social and family life of a boy in a typical American suburban middle-class family from 1968 to 1973, covering the ages of 12 through 17. I fell in love with this series at stage of my life when I was in college. So, I liked it more then as the story was of a teenager named Kevin Arnold, that related well in those teenage plus years! 

This American series is a classic and more details could be found here on Wikipedia. 

Here is a brief snippet of the series opening and closing themes :

The most touching and philosophical part of the series is the finale .. 

The final sounds, voice-over narration, and dialogue of the episode and series is that of Kevin as an adult, with children heard in the background:

"Growing up happens in a heartbeat. One day you're in diapers, the next day you're gone. But the memories of childhood stay with you for the long haul. I remember a place, a town, a house like a lot of houses. A yard like a lot of other yards. On a street like a lot of other streets. And the thing is, after all these years, I still look back ... with wonder."

A nostalgic story of growing up, journey from childhood to adulthood. Kevin Arnolds story will forever be our own. This was the story of Wonder Years! 

-----------------------------

P.S: A new series named "Wonder Years" premiered on American TV in 2021 in which the story revolves around a black teenager named Dean.   A coming-of-age story set in the late 1960s that takes a nostalgic look at a Black middle-class family in Montgomery, Alabama, through the point-of-view of imaginative 12-year-old Dean. With the wisdom of his adult years, Dean’s hopeful and humorous recollections show how his family found their ‘wonder years’ in a turbulent time.”

Statue of Unity - Ekta Nagar: Iconic place to visit

 

On this Republic day weekend, while on visit to IIM Ahemadabad for the "Healthcare Summit - India vision 2047, I was fortunate enough to lay my head on the holy feet of the Statue of the greatest leader of India, the true "IRON MAN" who made our "INDIA" possible as a United country ... A true Sardar, a true farmer and our greatest leader Sardar Vallabhai Patel, who has been my idol since school days.  Paid my obeisance at the feet of Statue of Unity and spent some time at Ekta Nagar, built from scratch by the greatest leader of our times. Hon Narendrabhai Modiji. 

One of the most important items in my bucket list is ticked!

Ekta Nagar, that was built from scratch in the area erstwhile known as Kewadia, is a must visit place for every Indian. It has world's largest statue .. the Statue of Unity and numerous other attractions like the Sardar Sarovar Dam, many theme gardens, eco-tourism and adventure tourism opportunities, River cruises, hiking, biking trails, beautiful Jungle Safari, Maa Narmada Aarti in the evening is an icing on the cake. 

It is advisable to have a 3-4 day stay and enjoy this beautiful area of Ekta Nagar-Statue of Unity. Details can be had from following website:    The Unity Tourism

Of all the available options to the tourists, I would recommend the following as "Must Visit":

1. Statue of Unity , Museum and Viewing gallery at 135m - Keep 5-6 hours for this. Book tickets for the slots online 

2. The Projection show held at around 7pm 

3. Ekta Cruise on river Narmada

4. Nauka vihar on Sardar Sarovar 

5. The evening laser show on Sardar Sarovar Dam ( starts at 8pm ) 

6. Jungle Safari - beautiful well maintained open zoo with exotic animals and birds

7. Maa Narmada Aarti - held at 8pm daily 

The transportation by E buses is free within Ekata nagar and the pink rickshaws are paid service run by women empowerment group. The overall facilities are excellent and one gets a great cultural, patriotic, eco-friendly, natural and spiritual experience. 

I have posted around 10-11 videos of my experience at Statue of Unity and Ekta Nagar on my YouTube channel. Here is the link to the channel. 

Fast Car .. the American classic

 In my series on songs with "American Philosophy", moving up from the previous blog on "American pie" and "Hotel California" , this blogpost is about "Fast Car" by Tracy Chapman. "Fast Car", a song by American singer-songwriter Tracy Chapman, is a poignant narrative about the struggle of escaping poverty and seeking a better life. “Fast Car” is one of those songs that you just feel in your soul: the lyrics about the yearning to escape, the gentle guitar underlying a feeling of despair but also the hope that something better is coming. It can make you cry but also inspire you to belt out the lyrics at the top of your lungs

I first heard "Fast Car" in 1989-90 but understood nothing of the lyrics as they were sung in typical "American English". I liked the music then and the arpeggios of chords in the background were catchy. (I used to call it "Aldehyde" song then)

After living in US for some time and comprehending the society there, understanding the American slangs and spoken language, I could get the depth, philosophy and power of the lyrics. The song is of hope and despair of common American but could be generalized to any immigrant to US that has to go through the cycle of hope, despair, disappointment, disillusionment and helplessness! Every American (almost) is in search of this "Fast Car", that is symbolism for the better life and escaping the hardships. The "fast car" could be the literal car getting them out of the town that holds no prospects or being the symbolic point of access that allows people to social climb. For some, that may be education or making the right connections.

The song finds its importance in being able to depict a social fabric many Americans have lived. The song is informed by the economic realities at play in America and tries to illustrate it in an intricately written song that continues to impact generations decades after it was written. The song's universality and storytelling could be the reason why it's considered a "classic."

The revival of this song and its trending started in February 2024 after the Grammy performance of Tracy Chapman and Luke Combs.

Tracy Chapman wrote and performed Fast Car first in 1989 and received 3 Grammys then after climbing to top 100 Billboard. Since then, the song is popular on US radio and is played every week. It touches the heart and soul of every "hard working American", has particularly become an anthem of single parents, single mothers and even queer folks.

There are many reasons why this song is popular. In my view and perception of the American society that I had over 10-12 years, "Fast Car" is the ballad of Single Mothers, Single Parents and even an immigrant to country like US who has hope in future that makes them sustain hardships of the day, a hope of escaping the hardship that comes full circle with disappointment and disillusionment and puts them back in loop!

The appeal and popularity of the song lies in the simplicity of the powerful music, the powerful lyrics telling the story with deep philosophy hidden in every word, the hope in despair of a common person. This touches the heart and soul instantly. 

The trademark of the music of Fast Car is the way "So I remember" is sung, the change in tempo, chorus and the music that comes in for that phrase... the constant movements between tempos with every stanza, giving the impression of hope and despair, moving the story between present and past.. with the simplicity of chords strumming in the background on Acoustic Folk Guitar. It's the hope of that "fast car" that keeps everyone's life moving.  

GaanSaraswati Mahotsav Pune

 

I was eagerly waiting to attend a "Classical Music Festival" live in person after a gap of almost 4-5 years. These festivals in Pune, in line with the likes of Sawai in past are more like "Jalsa" to me. They display us a variety in classical music, from instrumental to vocal, Hindustani to Carnatic and Western, from the upcoming young talent to the established, from the auditory to visual experience of "Sangeet" involving dance. 

Like many traditional classical loving Punekars, I had stopped attending the "Sawai" since its move from the traditional venue of Ramanbag to "the Gultekdi Market", sensing the decline in overall quality of the "classical festival".

The lineup of artists for the 10th year of GaanSaraswati Mahotsav attracted me to the festival. I had prebooked my season pass well in advance online and was ready for reviving my interest in the "Musical Jalsas". The weekend of Feb 23rd to 25th was hence blocked for the "experience".

GaanSaraswati Mahotsav Day 1 - Review and experience

The arrangements at the venue and the overall management and ticketing experience did not disappoint me. I am glad that the organizers have adapted to most of the modern day systems and arrangements, but still retaining the "Traditional Sawai" template of Musical Jalsa. The festival has "only chairs" seating arrangement and that is more comfortable for the young and elderly alike.

Day 1, Friday evening by 5 pm, the festival kicked off with the rendering of Traditional "Mantra" recitation by religious pandits. This created a unique experience to the audience and I am sure many music lovers instantly settled into a calming soothening milieu, that imparts a kind of "Theharaav"

The young trio of Manas Kumar (violins), Abhay Nayampally (Carnatic Guitar) and Ishan Ghosh (Tabla) was delightful and assuring. They started with a Ganesh Stuti in Hansdwani by Abhay Nayampally followed by Patmanjiri alap by Manas Kumar on Violins. The trio together rendered a beautiful fusion of Carnatic and Hindustani melodious experience that was based around PantuVaraLi of Carnatic style and Puriya Dhanaashree of Hindustani style. This young brigade has already won the hearts of not just the youth but also the "traditional" classical lovers. Their fusion was definitely not a confusion but a perfect mix of Carnatic and Hindustani, the progressive classical experience tradition and modern, an experience of intellectual performing art that has strong roots in traditional training and riyaaz. No doubt that the "trio" has a bright future ahead. They were presented with "Young achievers" Award. 

By 6.30 pm the pandal was full, as the darling of crowd, Kaushiki Chakravarty was on stage accompanied by Ojas Adhiya on Tabla, Murad Ali on Sarangi and Tanmay Deochakke on Harmonium. She started with Shuddha Kalyan (May be as a tribute to the Gaan Saraswati Kishori Amonkar ) with Patiala vilambit bandish "Aaj ki shubhghadee" (आज की शुभ घडी ) followed by "Mat kar gumaan" (मत कर गुमान ) in madhya lay and the classic Patiala gem "Baajo re baajo" (बाजो रे बाजो ). A thumri in Maanjh-Khamaj "Prem agan jiyaraa" (प्रेम अगंन जियारा ) and a Marathi abhang "Maaze maaher Pandhari"(माझे माहेर पंढरी) . She concluded by 8.45 with "Mhaaro pranaam" (म्हारो ) as a tribute to GaanSaraswati. 

Pt Ronu Majumdar with Pt Ramdas Palsule on Tabla, arrived on the stage for the final concert of the day at round 9pm and was filled with emotions as he remembered his association with GaanSaraswati. With his alaapi in Abhogi Kanada, he calmed down the crowd and continued a pleasing rendering, ably accompanied by appropriate soft Tabla. His Pahaadi with a stress on Shuddha Nishadh was the icing on the cake. The concluding Bhairavi brought about the perfect "bhaav" of Karuna and surrender. Audience were filled with peaceful emotions as they left for their homes for the day, eagerly awaiting Day 2 of the festival that will feature young vocalist Saurabh Kadgaonkar, Aarti Ankalikar and Niladri Kumar. 

GaanSaraswati Mahotsav Day 2 - Review and experience

Day 2 , Saturday Feb 24th evening started with performance by young vocalist Saurabh Kadgaonkar of Pune who has been a disciple of Pt Raghunandan Panshikar. He started the concert with Bhimpalas vilambit followed by a drut "Naad Samudra" and a tarana. The highlight of his performance was a raagmala that was composed by his friend Rohit Marathe, involving Gaavati, Sarang, Kalyan, DwiGandhaar, Kanada, Malhar, Hansdhwani, Nand, Bhatiyaar, Yaman and Des.

He concluded with the famous bhajan "Bolava Vitthal, pahavaa vitthal" (बोलावा विठ्ठल , पहावा विठ्ठल)

Aarti Ankalikar was on stage with Purva-Kalyan in ati-vilambit Jhaptaal "Hovan lagi saanjh" (होवन लागी सांझ). An expansive ati-vilambit that created a very serious mood for almost 45 minutes was followed by a tarana in madhya lay and a drut "Piharava aajaa re,begi begi aavo more mandirava" ( पिहरवा आजा रे, बेगी बेगी आयो मोरे मंदिरवा) The second raag she chose was Hemant with a bandish by guru Dinkar Kaikini, "aavo ri aavo ri aavo ri sakhiyaa gaao, rituraaj hai" (आयो री आयो री आयो री सखिया)  and jod "jhanan jhanan jhanana baaje, sakhi mori" (झनन झनन झनन बाजे , सखी मोरी )

Niladri Kumar with his sitar started aalaapi in Khamaaj, displaying his mastery over the instrument. The raag chosen by him was .. obviously Jhinjhoti! An ample scope for the accompanist Tabla player, entertaining the crowd with more gimmickry than "pure soft classicalness". To me this performance sounded loud and below par the standards set by his father Kartik Kumar and he himself previously. However, the rendition of Bhairavi bandishes overcame my disappointment, concluding the final concert of day 2.

GaanSaraswati Mahotsav Day 3 - Review and experience

Day 3 Sunday morning session was enjoyable with young vocalist Jashan Bhumkar presenting Gunkali, Father and son duo violinists Milind & Yadnesh Raikar presenting Bilaskhani Todi and Pt Jayteerth Mewundi presenting Lalat, concluding the session with "Sou Bhagyada lakshmi baramma" (सौभाग्यदा लक्ष्मी बरम्मा ) 

Evening session began with young santoorist Shantanu Gokhale presenting Hansdwani followed by Kathak presentation by Sharvari Jamenis. 

The highlight of the evening was Pt Vishwamohan Bhatt and his Mohan Veena accompanied on Tabla by Abhishek Mishra and supported by his son and disciple Salil Bhat on Satvic Veena. He presented his own creation raag Vishwaranjani followed by his famous composition that had won him Grammy award. He was presented with "Mongubai Kurdikar Award" 

The final concert of the festival was by Pt Raghunandan Panshikar who started with Sawani Nat in Vilambit "Anahat Naad" (अनाहत नाद ) with the typical Jaipur style of slow phrasic progression of aakaar taans. He also aptly commented that the Jaipur gayaki sounds like "Rushi muni chanting their mantras in soft and slow manner". It was followed by a tarana.

A beautiful Bandish "Dekho shyam gehri neend baiyaan mori" (देखो शाम गहरी निंद ) of Chandrakauns ang Bageshree was short but soft and soothing. He concluded with a bhajan of Raghavendra Swami in Kannada.

The festival concluded by playing a recorded Bhairavi of young Kishori Amonkar. 

 Video content of the festival is posted on the fan page of Gaan Saraswati Mahotsav at Gaan Saraswati Mahotsav facebook Page   and on YouTube channel  Prasad Bhave - YouTube

Basant Panchami - Madan Mahotsav : A Celebration of Love, Spring and new beginnings

 

Basant Panchami – The festival welcoming arrival of spring held on the fifth day of month of Maagh in Hindu calendar (corresponding to late Jan – early Feb of Gregorian) marking the start of Spring and Holi season. On this day Hindus worship Saraswati Devi, the goddess of knowledge, music, art and culture.  It is called Basant or Vasant Panchami. In modern times, however, Vasant Panchami day is more commonly associated with Maa Saraswati, the goddess of learning, wisdom, knowledge, fine arts, refinement, science and technology.  People worship Goddess Saraswati to attain enlightenment through knowledge and to rid themselves of lethargy, sluggishness and ignorance.

Basant Panchami is a significant festival in India, and it is a time to come together and celebrate with friends and family. The festival has a long history and tradition, and it is an important part of the Hindu calendar. The significance of Basant Panchami is deeply rooted in its vibrant colours and textures. Yellow, the festival's most prominent hue, symbolizes knowledge, creativity, and music. It serves as a reminder of the blooming mustard fields that herald the arrival of spring. For everyone including farmers and  musicians it is a special day to start anew with the arrival of new harvest bringing in a new hope !  The color of this festival is “Yellow” symbolizing the yellow color of flowers and farms of northern India.

Ashwini Bhide-Deshpande sings "fagawa Brij dekhan ko chalo ri"

On the day of Vasant Panchmi, musicians start the music by singing Basant Raag.  For me Basant is a true pleasurable raag especially with the bandishes like “Fagawa Brij dekhan ko chalo ri” and my favorite one ” Aur raag sab bane baaraati, Dulha raag Basant ” . In this later bandish , Basant is described as a young groom that is about to get married and all other “Raags” have arrived at this festive celebration.

“ और राग सब बने बाराती , दुल्हा राग बसंत

मदन महोत्सव आज सखी री , अब बिदा भयो हेमंत 

सहचर गान करत ऊंचे स्वर कोकिल बोले हसंत 

गावत  नारी पंचम उंचे स्वर , ऐसो हि प्रिय कंत 

क्रीष्णदास  स्वामीनी बड्यो भागनी मिल्यो है भामा को कंत  ”

Here is the link to this traditional melodious Basant performed live by evergreen Pt Jasraj accompanied by Gaargi Siddhanta on vocal support , Appa Jalgavkar on Harmonium , young Vijay Ghate on Tabla and Kala Ramnath on violins.

History of Basant Panchami

Basant Panchami holds a rich history steeped in mythology and legends. One tale revolves around the renowned poet Kalidasa, who, in a moment of despair, contemplated suicide upon learning of his wife's departure. However, his fate took a remarkable turn when the goddess Saraswati emerged from a river and urged him to bathe in its waters. This transformative experience granted Kalidasa profound insight and transformed him into a gifted poet.

A captivating story is associated with Kama, the Hindu god of love. In his attempt to awaken Lord Shiva from a deep meditation following the loss of his wife Sati, Kama interrupted the divine trance. The seers intervened, urging Kama to rouse Shiva, allowing him to reconnect with the outside world and acknowledge Maa Parvati's unwavering devotion. In response, Kama shot flowers and beeswax arrows at Shiva using his sugarcane bow. However, his actions angered Lord Shiva, who opened his third eye and reduced Kama to ashes. In a compassionate gesture, Shiva promised to resurrect Kama's wife, Rati, after her 40 days of penance. This legend holds a special place in the Ramayana, as it is believed that Shiva fulfilled his promise and revived Rati after her rigorous penance.

Traditionally, young men and women have been gathering together on "Vasant Panchami" for rendezvous. Singing songs and meeting their partners. This might find a similarity to an analogous festival of Valentine Day in the west. In this year 2024, the western and eastern calendars have the Valentines Day and Vasant Panchami on the same day, February 14th! It is aptly a celebration of Love, new beginnings and Spring ... all over the world!

Feb 2, 2025 Update 

Vasant Panchami a festival of new beginnings, celebrating the seekers of knowledge, preaching Maa Saraswati. This year, Vasant Panchami falls on Feb 2nd and celebrates the arrival of Spring. dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, who represents wisdom, knowledge, music, and art. It is also known as Shri Panchami or Saraswati Panchami, and it is a day filled with devotion and celebration across India.

The festival is observed on the fifth day of the Hindu month of Magha, when mustard flowers bloom, symbolising the colour yellow. On this day, people pray to Goddess Saraswati for success in studies and creative pursuits. A significant ritual is Akshar-Abhyasam, where children begin their learning journey.

Many believe that Vasant Panchami is an Abujha Day, making it a good time to start new ventures. Schools and colleges often hold special prayers to seek the goddess's blessings for knowledge and success. Overall, Vasant Panchami is a joyful celebration that encourages learning and creativity while welcoming the vibrant energy of spring.

Here is a link to a nice video by Dr Neeti Kaushal explaining the importance of Vasant Panchami

Marwa - Puriya - Sohoni

 

Over last month I have been traveling and the raag or set of notes that are lingering all these days almost all times of the day were that of Marwa and Puriya .. 

Yesterday on YouTube I saw an episode "Sandhyakaleen Tadap" on the theme of Puriya, Marwa and Sohini. Also, there was news of death of Ut Rashid Khan. These dots got connected and I sat to write this blog.

Marwa depicts the masculine longing or yearning (विरह), that is different from the feminine longing, hence the exception of relationship between "Vaadi" (komal rishabh) and "Samvaadi" (Dhaivat) being Shadaja-Gandhaar instead of the rule of either Shadaja-Pancham or Shadaja-Madhyam that is observed in most raags in classical music. This also explains why Marwa sounds apt in male voice than female.   

In fact ABD explains that Marwa is more like Bhoop without the touch of Shadaja. ABD explains this in a beautiful way in the following video.

For me Marwa of Ut Rashid Khan, Ut Amir Khan and Pt Vasantrao Deshpande (fondly called Vasantkhan Deshpande) is the Gold standard in Classical Music. 

काहूकी रीत कोऊ करे सखी री

मीत पिहरवा वो जो कहियो

सो सो सब अपने मन की 

हूं अधीन तन मन धन तुम्हरे

तुम तो मेहेरबान सबके

सदारंग पर रंग बरसायो 

Here are some of my favorites.. Marwa Bandish from the film "Mi Vasantrav" 

Marwa, Puriya and Sohoni all take the same notes used in different gaits, ways and proportions. Differential stresses on certain notes 

Sa,Re',Ga,Ma,Dha,Ni,SA 

Marwa has "alpatwa" of Sa that gives it the longing..."Virah".. the "tadap" ..  komal Rishabh and Dhaivat render the masculinity. The "theharaav" around Komal Rishabh and Dhaivat is the trademark of Marwa, gives it its serious impression.

Puriya with the same set of notes set around Gandhaar-Nishaad as Vaadi-Sanvaadi and ample use of Sa gives a different kind of peaceful longing that seems hidden in the depth, like a ocean. More feminine and pleading than complaining. Raag Marwa and Puriya are like two able sons with a bright sister called Sohini with similar genetic makeup from a mother who is extremely beautiful and a brave father (Bhoop).   

The quintessential Bandish of Pt Jasraj in Puriya is a pot of gold set in Jhaptaal.

अब थारे बिन कूण मोरी राखे लाज 

ते थो तेज महान 

जिन जिन ध्याये  तिन तिन पाये 

मोपे विपता बडी भारी 

जस सवरत नहीं आज 

Puriya of Ut Rashid Khan too has something special in it. 

Ragini Sohoni, the bright sister of Marwa and Puriya takes the same notes at higher octave.... sharp taans is its trademark. 

Ut Bade Ghulam Ali Khan (BGAK) of Patiala gharana was the greatest exponent of raagini Sohini.

My favorite thumri in Raagini Sohoni is by again Ut Rashid Khan ..

देखबे को मन ललचाए  

One more video that explains the relationship of Marwa, Puriya and Sohoni is the one by disciple of Pt CR Vyas and Satyasheel Deshpande ... Sanjeev Chimalggi at Raagmala concert

 

There is a lot that could be written about Marwa, Puriya and Sohini. This is one of the classic combinations in Hindustani Classical Music. 

This blogpost was impromptu and is my humble attempt at paying respect, tribute and homage to the departed souls Ut Rashid Khan and Pt Jasraj.  Om Shanti ! 

Sossegado : Kokan - October 2023

 

Theme for my October 2023 Kokan trip was "Sossegado" .. "Susegaad" (सुशेगाद) in Konkani meaning "निवांत" in Marathi or Relaxed, Calm, peaceful in English ..the culture of Goa is often called "Susegaad" ( Derived from Portugese "sossegado" meaning Calm, Quiet and peaceful)

This trip took me from Ratnagiri to Devgad to Talashil-Tondavli  via Mithbav-Tambaldeg, with 3 days stay at all places. Finally to Bhogawe beach resort for an extended stay, riding locally to Devbag, Tarkarli, Malvan, Mhapan,Vengurla, Kudal. Flying back to Pune via Mopa (Goa ).

Started my Oct 2023 Kokan trip from Ratnagiri.. Luckily I found a resort of the same name in Ratnagiri and decided to book my stay there. Like my every travel, I tend to visit Temples, Beaches and travel locally on two wheelers to meet locals and interact, feeling the vibes of place in full! 

I have a habit of taking short videos of 1-3 minutes at various places I visit. The total number of videos that I shot during this travel might be over 500. I have kept them in raw format spread over 19-20 albums on Facebook. I have also got addicted to taking selfie videos at places that I like. These selfies are not to show off, but for memories of that place and the joy I had there during the visit. 

Here is a list and link to these albums on Facebook :

Ratnagiri 2023 

My favorite places are Bhataye beach, Bhataye beach bridge, "Madhli aali", local restaurants : Mandar Misal, Samadhan Juice bar, Datta Cafe, Shivalkar Vadapaav. Temples of Bhairi, Jogeshwari, Kashi Vishweshwar, 18 haati Ganapati, Dev Satyanarayan

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2579582862201835&type=3

Kasheli 

Drive from Ratnagiri resort to Kasheli tabletop and breath-taking views of Devghali beach at Kasheli, Kanakaditya Mandir. Drive from Ratnagiri (Karla Sushegad resort) to Devgad (Vedaa Resort)

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2581236352036486&type=3

Devgad 2023 

Devgad has a special place in my heart. I truly love Devgad .. Had a rental Honda Nav two-wheeler to ride and I took wonderful rides to Vijaydurg, Jamsande,. Mithbav, Tambaldeg and Kunkeshwar along with Light house and Devgad fort. Had wonderful stay at Hotel Vedaa in a room with beautiful views of Windmills and sunsets, sunrises and Devgad beach. Had morning walks on beach and visited Devgad windmill garden nearby. Devgad offers great variety of wonderful food that vegetarians can enjoy (my favorite - Prapanch and Dilkhush) .. Janaki Dining hall at Mithbav is one of the famous Veg joints on the way from Devgad to Malvan. Jamsande is one of the best places to enjoy snacks (my favorite - Santosh Bhuvan) 

This album has some of the most beautiful videos I have shot, all 1-3 minutes long with natural sights and sounds .. no editing.  Enjoy ! Almost 100 short videos: 

- Devgad Garden

- Drive to Kunkeshwar ,  Tambaldeg, Mithbav 

- Devgad Fort and Lighthouse

- Vijaydurg and Riddhi Siddhi Mandir 

- Devgad Harbour and Hanuman Mandir 

- Views of Windmills , Sunsets and Sunrises from Vedaa Resort

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2579600668866721&type=3

Visit to Tambaldeg-Mithbav via Kunkeshwar on Two wheeler

Honda Navi ride from Devgad hotel to Tambaldeg. Beautiful views of Windmills from hotel room to start for a two wheeler ride to Tamballdeg

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2581284038698384&type=3

Visit to Vijaydurga and Riddhi Siddhi Mandir 

Two wheeler ride to Vijaydurg and Riddhi Siddhi Ganpati mandir Morning and evening views of the Windmills and the sun ( rising and setting ) .. from the balcony of my hotel room in Devgad ( Vedaa Resort )

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2581292475364207&type=3

Drive from Devgad (Vedaa Resort) to Talashil-Tondavali (Capsule Resort)

Drive Starting from Devgad Hotel Vedaa to Talashil - Tondivali via Mithmumbri , Kunkeshwar , Mithbav

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2581260512034070&type=3

Janaki Dining Hall Mithbav 

A must visit place for the best vegetarian food at Mithbav .. or maybe even all Malvan. Run by Mr and Mrs Soman Janaki Dining hall at Mithbav is one of the best places to have Vegetarian food ... located on a road from Devgad to Malvan.

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2581237188703069&type=3

Talashil Tondavali

Stay at Talashil resort, sunsets, sunrise of Dasara, Gopal Krushna Temple, Numerous videos of sunsets .. some of my most favorites with captions ( some pholosophical too ) There is a separate album for : Visit to Juva island, Visit to Shimpla island, Kawada rock and Dolphins sightings

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2579641088862679&type=3

Boat ride at Talashil - Visit to Juva Island, Shimpla Island, Kawada Rock

Boat rides in sea and rivers , is one of the important reasons for me visiting Kokan so frequently .. This boat ride at Talashil-Tondivli was special .. leisurely and involved various activities from Visiting Juva Island for lunch , Visiting Sarjekot fishing harbour, Sangam point, Shimpla Island and the trademark Kawada Island shaped like a tortoise. Many Dolphins accompanied our boat and leisurely we enjoyed their company by turning off the engines of the boat. In this album: Juva Island, Shimpla island, Kawada rock, Sarjekot, Dolphin sightings

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2581377342022387&type=3

Drive from Talashil - Tondivali to Bhogwe

A Drive starting Talashil - Tondavali resort towards Bhogawe Sunlight resort Dasara , Oct 24, 2023

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2581271568699631&type=3

Bhogawe beach resort stay

Daily recordings on the morning walk and evening sunsets from the beach at Bhogawe beach resort .. some of the surreal sights and sounds .. Relaxing short videos with natural sounds

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2581074195386035&type=3

Bhogwe Beach walks near Nivti fort and Golden rock

Morning walks along the beach... Bhogwe Beach walks near Nivti fort and Golden rock, Visit to Paat lake and quick ride to Kudal.

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2581629285330526&type=3

October 2023 Beach fest - Bhogawe beach

The evenings of partying and parting at Bhogawe beach resort.. beautiful sunsets and serene beaches This album is of my daily morning and evening walks at Bhogawe beach, Bhogawe beach resort , Nivti beach and Nivti fort beach near Golden rock .. Many selfies that I could not resist taking .. Some beautiful views of mornings and evenings on beach that are truly enjoyable. Includes the Full moon day of 28th and the Lunar eclipse as seen from Bhogawe beach resort.

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2580910605402394&type=3

Two wheeler ride to Vengurla and visit to Nivti fort

On the day of Angling competition at Bhogawe beach .. a visit to Nivti fort and a two wheeler ride to Vengurla for Samosa and Fruit cocktail-milkshake ( October 28th )

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2581542068672581&type=3

Riding Two wheeler from Bhogawe to Devbag, Tarkarli, Malvan

A ride on TVS 125 Racer from Bhogawe beach to Tarkarli, Devbag, Malvan, Nivti fort, Nivti village and small beach, Khavane beach, Bhogawe Angling and Fishing competition at main Bhogawe beach .. my favorite places for snack at main Bhogawe beach ( Mauli and Prasad Hotel ) .. A tea and vadapav in the evening on a bench at beach .. Two temples at Devbag : BalKrushna Temple and Vitthal Rakhumai Temple , The Devbag fishing village

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2581469448679843&type=3

Rock Garden of Malvan

A visit to Rock Garden at Malvan on a hot afternoon in October... riding on a two wheeler all the way from Bhogawe, Tarkarli and Devbag.

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2581522502007871&type=3

Sindhudurg Chipi Airport

Chipi - Sindhudurga airport near Parule is the first operational commercial airport of Kokan .. Only one aircraft arrives and leaves the airport 4 times a week to Mumbai. In this album : - A video of Propeller jet from Mumbai landing at the Airport - View of Chipi Airport from outside - Selfies at the runway of Chipi airport road - Direction boards to Chipi airport

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2580974962062625&type=3

Drive from Bhogawe to Mopa airport

2 hr drive from Bhogawe resort.. Parule.. Paat.. Kudal.. NH66 highway .. Zarap.. Goa Border .. Short cut to Mopa airport on left side before Pernem

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2581449662015155&type=3

GOX Mopa Airport, North Goa

One of my favourite airports .. GOX Mopa Manohar international airport, North Goa This airport has been decorated and built with aesthetic sense, keeping in view the beauty , artistic liking and life of Goan people and tourism. The paintings at the airport are truly fun. The sitting and waiting areas are spacious with modern furniture designs. Restaurants and Bars at the lounge and gates are excellent. One of my favorites is the Irish House at gate 21,22,23 .. with antique decor and feel. I donot mind if my plane is delayed for couple of hours at this Airport !

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2580883978738390&type=3

Link to my Coastal Kokan trips from December 2022 to March 2023 - Get your Kicks on NH66 

Musings on Music: Get your kicks on NH-66 (pbhave.blogspot.com)

Rageshree siblings: Khambavati, Bhinna-Shadaj, Kaushi Dhwani, Hindoli, Hemant, Maanjh-Khamaj

 

This blogpost is about Raag Rageshree or Rageshwari as described in old literature. It has been a traditional raag performed since ages, very popular among veterans like Ut Bade Gulam Ali Khan to modern exponents like Kishori Amonkar. Theoreticians have described it as a Raag that has a mixture of 10 raags, namely; Sindhura, Dhanaashree, Bhairav, Durga, Kanada, Asawari, Kedar, Gauri, Devgiri and Devgandhaar ! (I tend to never believe in such theories)    

Rageshree has many variations, the primary being one that has both the nishads and the other that has only komal nishad. The siblings of Rageshree are essentially its variants with additions and deletions of a swar in aroha or avaroah. Two songs or tunes from Hindi movies, that have the feel of Rageshree are "Rahe na rahe hum" and "kaun aaya mere man ke dware"

Variations of Rageshree emerged with different gharanas calling it with different names. Agra gharana has a variation called Pancham Rageshree (or Hindoli) with predominance of Pancham instead of Madhyam. The variation that is a trademark of Jaipur-Atrouli gharana is Khambavati. This finds more resemblance towards Durga and Gauri is ascension and has that characteristic Jaipur "Vakra" descent.

Bhinna-Shadaj is a variant that has a single shuddha nishad and exclusion of Rishabh. The classic bandish "Ud ja re kagaa" is the hallmark of this raag. 

Hemant is a related raag that was conceptualized by Ut Allaudin Khan and later popularized by his disciples as well as "Vagyakars" like Ramashray Jha, and singers of Agra Gharana like Pt Jitendra Abhisheki. There is however a similar raag mentioned in old literature that is labelled as Mand / Manjh / Manjh-Khamaj  

Hemant and Bhinna Shadaj is also called by the name of Kaushi-Dhwani, by the exponents of Patiala gharana. The classic thumri "Yaad piya ki aaye" by Ut Bade Gulam ali Khan of Patiala gharana that has been a residential part of every concert of the darling of Patiala gharana, Kaushiki Chakravarty, is the flagship of Kaushi-Dhwani, Bhinna Shadaj or Hemant.. all siblings of Raag Rageshree of Khamaj thaat.  

Here is my playlist on YouTube for the Rageshree siblings. 

Get your kicks on NH-66

National Highway 66, commonly referred to as NH 66 (erstwhile NH-17 and a part of NH-47), is a mostly 4 lane 1,608 km (999 mi) long busy National Highway that runs roughly north–south along the western coast of India, parallel to the Western Ghats. It connects Panvel (a city south of Mumbai) to Cape Comorin (Kanyakumari), passing through the states of Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

This a blogpost about my travels on NH66.

Post Covid, my bucket list of travel was full of places that I missed traveling during the pandemic lockdown. I completed checking out my travel list in four trips with a travel theme of "Beaches and Temples", four trips of 14-17 days each spanning over last 4 months. These recent pleasure trips with the theme "Beaches and Temples" were along the west coast of India from Kokan region of Maharashtra to Coastal Karnataka, Kerala and Kanya Kumari (southern tip of India). Each trip was distinct in a way that I took almost all forms of transports, from SUV, Car, 2-wheeler, train and flights travelling to various places. 

Mar 6 - 16   

Pune-Mumbai-Chipi-Malvan-Vengurla-North Goa-Mopa-Pune 

Jan 30 - Feb 12 

KanyaKumari - Coastal Kerala ( Thiruvanantapuram, Kochi, Varkala )

Dec 20 -Jan 7 

Coastal Karnataka and Goa

Dec 7-14  

Coastal Kokan 

During these trips I could explore the nature in true sense, in the process of exploring myself. It was a great invigorating and rejuvenating experience for myself, that gave me a new perspective of life. I captured over 1000 short videos during these travels and have posted them in around 25 different albums on my Facebook page. 

The reason for blogging about these travels is, because I realized that these travels truly helped me discover myself and hence I should share the joy with all. I met many interesting people. I discovered the power of sea waves in calming the soul and the fact these travels and the roads were truly the source of energy than the destination per se. I just wanted to share this thought and hence the "show" of "travel blog." 

I am planning to write a series on these travels as a separate blog series, but that would take time. Have posted some videos on YouTube and would be posting more such high-definition videos in future (once I get into the mood of doing so!) Meanwhile, enjoy the videos in raw form as they are on my YouTube channel and in my FB albums.

Please feel free to checkout / download any of the videos that I have posted in albums on:

 My Facebook page. :  https://www.facebook.com/PVBhave/photos_albums

 My YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@pvbhave

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Individual albums on Facebook : 

Chipi Bhogwe Malvan : https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2411628408997282&type=3

Aaryavarta Beach Resort: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2412335745593215&type=3

Sindhudurga Fort and Malvan Rameshwar Mandir: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2413088505517939&type=3

Boat ride in deep sea and Dolphins sightings : https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2413051385521651&type=3

Vengurla : https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2414492775377512&type=3 

Goa 2023 March : https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2416596815167108&type=3

Drives on Two wheeler in Rural North Goa : https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2419016064925183&type=3

Kanya Kumari - Vivekanandapuram : https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2386479398178850&type=3

Coastal Kerala:  https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2387544921405631&type=3

Train Journeys : https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2311161412377316&type=3

Selfie Album : https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2396075647219225&type=3

Road Trip videos Coastal Karnataka to Goa : https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2358865677606889&type=3

Udupi Beaches : https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2358944747598982&type=3

Visit to St Mary's Island: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2358990954261028&type=3

Udupi Shree Krishna Temple: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2358814680945322&type=3

Murudeshwar : https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2358790220947768&type=3

Gokarna Beach Stay : https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2358985294261594&type=3

Goa Temples and Favorite places:  https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2362466857246771&type=3

Coastal Kokan Trip December 2022 : https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2343623879131069&type=3

Complete Coastal Karnataka-Goa trip Videos and photos shot on FitSpark Pro camera : https://www.facebook.com/media/set?vanity=PVBhave&set=a.2369038636589593