On the serene evening of 27th August, 2023, at the renowned Vivekananda SabhaGriha, Belur Math, Kolkata, a magical musical performance by the gifted sitar virtuoso Sayan Ghosh captivated all who were present. The hall, with its timeless spiritual ambiance, was filled with an audience of eager students and esteemed elders, all drawn to witness a unique musical evening that intertwined tradition, spirituality, and artistic brilliance.
The event was graced by two notable figures—Sri Sudhiranjan Mukherjee, a celebrated alpona artist whose works radiate cultural heritage, and Swami Sukangkan Maharaj, whose guidance played a crucial role in the evening’s success. Their presence added an aura of divine grace, creating a perfect backdrop for the soulful performance that was about to unfold.
Among the audience were a few of Sayan’s devoted disciples: Diganta, Ritwika, Amit, and Subrata. Their joy was palpable as they enjoyed the evening not only through the music but also through shared conversations and the delicious food that was served. The evening's spiritual essence was further heightened as the attendees joined for the revered "Ramakrishna Aratrikam" ceremony, a peaceful and transcendent moment that resonated deeply within the hearts of all present.
A moment of profound significance came when Sri Sudhiranjan Mukherjee blessed Sayan, wishing him greater popularity and wisdom in his musical journey. The blessing, filled with goodwill and spiritual warmth, reflected the deep respect and affection that the community held for Sayan’s artistry.
Sayan Ghosh has always shared a deep, heartfelt connection with the Ramakrishna Mission. His respect for Sri Ramakrishna, Swami Vivekananda, and Maa Sarada has been unwavering, and this spiritual bond has been a guiding force in his life. In fact, it was this reverence that led him to take spiritual initiation (dikhsha) from the Ramakrishna Math, further enriching his connection with the Mission and its values. His music, like his spirituality, is deeply rooted in humility and devotion, offering a serene path to higher understanding.
The performance itself was nothing short of mesmerizing. Sayan opened the evening with the evocative Raaga Shyamkalyan, a raga that effortlessly conveyed a blend of tranquility and depth. His intricate mastery of the sitar spoke volumes of his dedication and command over his instrument, bringing the audience into a state of profound stillness.
Following the Raaga, Sayan treated the audience to a beautiful rendition of a Dhunmala, a medley of several devotional dhuns, each resonating with a unique emotional wavelength. Among the dhuns, favorites such as ‘Anar Anar,’ ‘Dekhechi Rupsagore,’ and ‘Ekla Chalo Re’ filled the air, stirring the hearts of all who were present. These pieces, blending classical ragas with folk tunes and patriotic hymns, encapsulated the spirit of unity, peace, and devotion.
The tabla accompaniment by Shubhabrata Saha added the perfect rhythmic balance to Sayan’s sitar, with every beat flowing seamlessly into the next. Their collaboration was an excellent example of the synergetic relationship between melody and rhythm, an embodiment of the profound musical tradition they represent.
Under the able guidance of Swami Sukangkan Maharaj, the evening unfolded effortlessly, leaving a lasting impression on everyone. The entire program, brimming with spiritual warmth, beautiful music, and divine blessings, was an embodiment of the essence of Belur Math itself—a place where devotion and artistry converge, creating a transformative experience for all.
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| with Sri Sudhiranjan Mukherjee |
For Sayan Ghosh, this evening was not just a performance, but a soulful tribute to his spiritual roots and his continuous journey towards greater wisdom and understanding. It was a night that celebrated both the eternal melodies of the sitar and the timeless teachings of the Ramakrishna Mission—an evening that will undoubtedly remain etched in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to be a part of it.
