Swad, Sargam aur Safar

13/01/2025

Vasantotsav 2025: A Mesmerizing Blend of Tradition and Modernity

Get ready for an unforgettable musical journey as Vasantotsav 2025 returns to Pune, blending the rich heritage of Indian classical music with the vibrant sounds of contemporary music. Curated by the celebrated vocalist Rahul Deshpande in honor of his legendary grandfather Dr. Vasantrao Deshpande, this festival promises to be a soulful experience for music lovers of all ages.

✨ Day 1 kicks off with electrifying performances by popular Indie bands—Agnee and Thaikudam Bridge bringing a fresh, youthful energy to the stage.

🎵 The festival beautifully weaves together diverse musical traditions with:
• Hindustani Classical by the soulful Sanjeev Abhyankar
• Carnatic Melodies by the dynamic duo Ranjani-Gayatri
• Instrumental Magic by the legendary sitar maestro Shujaat Husain Khan

🌟 The grand finale will be a spellbinding performance by the legendary Hariharan A alongside Rahul Deshpande, promising an evening of pure musical bliss.

From timeless classical ragas to powerful contemporary sounds, Vasantotsav 2025 is a true celebration of music that transcends generations and touches hearts.
Don’t miss this extraordinary musical celebration!

Begin 2025 on a soulful note! Pune’s favorite Vasantotsav is back for its 18th year, ready to fill your January with unforgettable melodies.

Save the date: 17-19 Jan 2025. Don’t miss the musical extravaganza!

13/01/2025

In my previous posts I have covered Baku (Azerbaijan) travel in two parts. Do find my detailed day by day itinerary in this post.

Links for previous posts are in comments section.

08/01/2025

DAY 3: FROM BAKU'S ANCIENT SITES TO GABALA'S PROMISE
Our journey through Azerbaijan's heritage started with Baku's most fascinating sites:
THE FIRE TEMPLE (ATESHGAH)An ancient sanctuary where continuously burning natural gas flames tell tales of Zoroastrians, Hindus, and Sikhs who once worshipped here. Each stone seems to whisper stories of Azerbaijan's rich spiritual past.
YANARDAG (FIRE MOUNTAIN)Even through the mist, the eternal flames of Yanardag danced their mystical performance - a natural phenomenon that captures Azerbaijan's elemental beauty.
UNEXPECTED CULINARY DELIGHTSA surprise Pakistani restaurant near Yanardag became an unexpected treasure:
Melt-in-mouth kebabs
Creamy yogurt soup
Aromatic vegetable biryani
Rich, comforting chicken curry
DAY 4: GABALA'S NATURAL SPLENDOR
GABALA CABLE CAR ADVENTURE Perfect weather blessed us with breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks against bright skies. Each moment suspended above the landscape offered a private showing of Azerbaijan's magnificent scenery.
MOUNTAIN DISCOVERIES
Local mountain honey tasting
Traditional baklava sampling
Each treat telling its own story of regional traditions
NOHUR LAKE EXPERIENCEThe mirror-like waters of Nohur Lake created perfect reflections of the sky, offering a serene escape into nature's embrace.
LAKESIDE DINING AT NOHUR GÖLA feast for both eyes and palate:
Traditional Shahi Pilaf
Fresh mountain trout
Authentic Azerbaijani kebabs
EVENING SERENITY AT SOYUQ BULAQ Our riverside dinner featured:
Warming traditional soups
Fragrant vegetable rice
Fresh Qutab (stuffed flatbread)All accompanied by the gentle sounds of flowing water.
DAY 5: FAREWELL TO AZERBAIJAN
Our journey concluded at the stunning Borani Terrace, where we raised a glass of local Xirdalan Original lager to our Azerbaijani adventure. As the sun set over Baku one final time, we reflected on five days of incredible experiences, warm hospitality, and unforgettable memories.
Thank you for joining us on this journey through Azerbaijan, where every day brought new discoveries and every meal told a story of this remarkable land.

01/01/2025

AZERBAIJAN TRAVEL DIARIES: UNVEILING A HIDDEN GEM - PART 1
Get ready for a journey to Azerbaijan – where ancient traditions meet modern elegance, and every moment feels like a story waiting to be told!
Through these posts, I'll be sharing our incredible adventure to two remarkable destinations:
BAKU: The cosmopolitan capital blending European sophistication with Azerbaijani soul
Iconic landmarks like the Flame Towers
Vibrant streets alive with culture and history
Culinary delights that will leave your taste buds dancing
GABALA: A mountain paradise steeped in natural beauty and rich heritage
Stunning landscapes perfect for every nature lover
Immersive traditional experiences and local hospitality
Unique adventures that take you off the beaten path
DAY 1: BAKU – A EUROPEAN VIBE WITH AZERBAIJANI CHARM
Baku welcomed us with its irresistible blend of sleek modernity and cultural depth. From the towering Flame Towers to the serene views at Highland Park, the city felt like a harmonious marriage of the past and future.
NIZAMI STREET ADVENTURESThe lively heartbeat of Baku! Bustling shops, friendly faces, and the irresistible aroma of freshly baked goodies turned every step into a memory.
CULINARY HIGHLIGHTS:(1) Entree Bakery: Warm croissants and coffee – the perfect cozy start to our day!(2) Dolma Restaurant: A hidden gem offering a taste of Azerbaijan's soul:
Vegetarian Platter – A burst of flavors from pickled and stir-fried vegetables
Shahi Pilaf – Sweet and savory harmony
Mutton Stir-fry – Rich and tender, wrapped in traditional roti
Dinner here wasn't just a meal – it was an experience. The vintage decor, soft folk music, and intimate atmosphere transported us to another era.
DAY 2: EXPLORING MORE OF BEAUTIFUL BAKU
Evening in Baku: Our exploration led us back to Nizami Street, where we discovered Namli Kebap – a Turkish restaurant that redefined "culinary excellence."
THE FEAST:
Mezze Platter: Creamy Lebneh, fiery Muhammara, smooth Hummus, refreshing Tzatziki
Main Courses: Juicy lamb chops and perfectly grilled Shish Touq (chicken skewers)
Desserts: Kunafa and Baklava, served with ice cream – the sweetest end to a perfect day!
COMING UP IN PART 2; Get ready to join us as we venture into the enchanting mountain town of Gabala! We'll take you through ancient forests, traditional villages, and share the magical moments that made this journey truly special. From local cuisine that will make your mouth water to breathtaking mountain vistas, our Gabala adventure is a story you won't want to miss!

27/12/2024

Sawai Gandharva Bhimsen Mahotsav: where music and flavours blend

The Sawai Gandharva Bhimsen Mahotsav is not just a celebration of Hindustani classical music; it’s an experience that beautifully blends Pune’s cultural heritage with its culinary traditions. While the maestros weave magic on stage, the food stalls add to the festive charm with their delicious offerings of Puneri and regional delicacies.
The food stalls serve a delightful mix of traditional snacks and unique regional specialties. Among the highlights are the quintessential Puneri Dadape Pohe (दडपे पोहे) and Kolache Pohe (कोळाचे पोहे). Kolache Pohe is a traditional preparation where poha is combined with jaggery (gud), coconut milk and tamarind, creating a delightful balance of sweetness and texture. This simple yet satisfying dish is a nostalgic favourite.
The Haldichya Panatalya Patolya(हळदीच्या पानातल्या पातोळ्या),a treasured Konkani delicacy, features jaggery-sweetened rice flour dough spread on turmeric leaves and steamed to perfection. The leaves impart a unique aroma, making this simple, aromatic dish a festive favorite.

For those craving something savory, the Tikhat Mithachya Purya and the flavorful Matar Karanji hit the right notes, while the humble yet comforting Tandalachi Ukad (steamed rice flour preparation) and Mugachi Khichdi provided a nourishing experience for people seeking comfort food. These traditional dishes not only satisfied the palate but also brought a sense of nostalgia and connection to the roots of Maharashtra’s culinary heritage.
Stalls like Kumaradhara’s Coffee served steaming cups of south indian filter coffee that perfectly complemented the winter evenings, while others like Suhana (सुहाना) offered मसाला चाय & मसाला दूध.

As the raagas filled the air and the aromas of these timeless delicacies wafted through the venue, the Sawai festival created an ambiance where music and food blended seamlessly, offering a wholesome experience for both the soul and the stomach. Truly, a celebration of Pune’s spirit at its finest!





Anirudha Ambekar Sucheta Ambekar Anant Farms

24/12/2024

🎵 The magical 70th Sawai Gandharva Bhimsen Mahotsav 2024!

This year was even more special as it marked my 17th year attending this extraordinary festival — a pilgrimage that continues to enrich my soul. With over 10,000 people in attendance, I am certain this is the largest gathering of Hindustani classical music aficionados, a testament to the timeless appeal and unifying power of our rich musical heritage. Let me share some unforgettable moments from these five days of pure classical bliss:

Day 1

The festival opened with the mesmerizing Carnatic violin by Dr. L Subramaniam and his son Ambi, setting a soulful tone. The evening peaked with Pt. Ajoy Chakraborty’s heart-stirring rendition of Raag Bihag. His "चिंता ना करे, अल्लाह करम करे" transported the audience to spiritual bliss, while "झुम झाम धुम धाम – घर आई गोरी गोकुल नगरी" had everyone swaying in delight. He concluded with the evocative "बैठे सोचे ब्रज बाम, सूना लागे मोरा धाम, नाही आये घन श्याम, घीर आयी कारी बदरी."

Day 2

Few artists combine mastery with modesty like Pt. Venkatesh Kumar, whose divine music reflected his pure devotion to the art. The 71-year-old maestro from Dharwad left the audience spellbound with Raag Maru Bihag and Kaunsi Kanada. His affectionate treatment of the slow-tempo "रसिया, आयो ना" in Maru Bihag brought approving nods, while "मन मे रहो मोरा जियरा" showcased his exceptional artistry.
His majestic rendition of "राजन के राजा श्री रामचंद्र/ जगत उद्धारण जन प्रतिपालन" in Kaunsi Kanada created a deeply spiritual atmosphere, followed by the moving "काहे करत मोसे बरजोरी." He ended with two devotional pieces, "कैलास वास गौरीष ईशा शंभो" and "विठाबाई माझ्या पंढरीची आई," leaving the audience in awe.
Earlier, Anupama Bhagwat made a memorable debut, exploring the emotional depth of Raag Jhinjhoti. Dedicated to her late guru Bimalendu Mukherjee and reflecting on the loss of Ustad Zakir Hussain, her performance balanced celebration and separation, deeply moving the audience.

Day 3

The all-women ensemble 'Mohini' opened the day with grace. Purbayan Chatterjee, true to his promise, paid tribute to Shakti without explicitly naming Ustad Zakir Hussain. His Mishra Pahadi compositions, "सैयां बिन घर सुना लगे, याद पिया की आये" and "केसरिया बालमा," were deeply evocative. Hearing him sing a few lines was a delightful surprise.
Arati Ankalikar ji’s exploration of Raag Nand culminated in the eternal abhang "अवघा रंग एक झाला," an emotional tribute to her guru, Gaan Saraswati Kishori Amonkar.

Day 4

Anand Bhate took the audience on a spiritual journey with his sublime Raag Puriya Kalyan. His "जोहार मायबाप जोहार" resonated deeply, leaving everyone in awe. The highlight of the day was witnessing Kaushiki Chakraborty perform alongside her 13-year-old son Rish*th Desikan in Raag Bihag. The pride in Kaushiki’s eyes as she guided her son through a slow composition was as moving as the music itself — a moment of tradition passed down through love.
Kaushiki’s playful exploration of "झुम" reached emotional depths, supported brilliantly by Tanmay Deochakke (harmonium), Satyajit Talwalkar (tabla), and Murad Ali Khan (sarangi). The performance concluded with a light composition and the meditative chant "Hari Om Tatsa."
The day ended on a high with Rakesh Chaurasia’s mesmerizing flute performance.

Day 5

The grand finale began with Sanjeev Abhyankar's soul-stirring Raag Ahir Bhairav. Performances by Shashank Subramanyam (flute) and R Kumresh (violin) added depth to the day. A touching tribute to Prabha Atre by her students brought the festival to a heartfelt close.
Reflections

This year, the festival carried extra significance as many artists paid homage to the late Ustad Zakir Hussain. His absence was deeply felt, but his spirit lived on in every performance, transcending technical brilliance to reach emotional and spiritual heights.
Every year, Sawai is a journey — not just through music but through the soul. This year reminded me of why I’ve returned for 17 years. The sight of over 10,000 people united by their love for Hindustani classical music was profoundly moving. Each day offered moments that felt eternal, from the simplicity of Pt. Venkatesh Kumar’s craft to the emotional bond between Kaushiki and Rish*th.
Music, as always, transcended its form to become a bridge to spiritual bliss. Until next year, Sawai! 🎶

Do watch short clips of key moments I have captured...

Sawai Gandharva Bhimsen Mahotsav Ajoy Chakrabarty Kaushiki Chakraborty Purbayan Chatterjee

18/12/2024

🎶 Sawai Gandharva Bhimsen Mahotsav 2024 Begins Today 🎵

The Sawai Gandharva Bhimsen Mahotsav, one of the largest and most iconic Hindustani classical music festivals in India, begins today. Founded by Pandit Bhimsen Joshi in memory of his guru, Sawai Gandharva, this festival is more than just a music event – it is a pilgrimage for lovers of Hindustani classical music.

For decades, this Mahotsav has been a platform for legendary performances, introducing extraordinary artists while keeping the traditions of classical music alive. It brings together the finest musicians and thousands of listeners, all united by a shared love for timeless melodies.

As the Mahotsav begins, let us celebrate the beauty of classical music and the cultural legacy that continues to inspire generations.

This year’s notable performances include:

🎻 Dr. L. Subramaniam
🎤 Pt. Ajoy Chakraborty, Pt. Venkatesh Kumar,
Pt. Ulhas Kashalkar, Sanjeev Abhyankar, Anand Bhate, and Smt. Arati Ankalikar and Smt. Kaushiki Chakraborty accompanied by her teenage son ((Vocal performances)
🎸 Purbayan Chatterjee
🎼 Ayaan Ali Bangash & Amaan Ali Bangash
🎷 Rakesh Chaurasia (Flute)
🎵 Smt. Shobana & Teaam (Bharatnatyam)
🎷 Shashank Subramanyam (Flute) & R Kumaresh – Jugalbandi

Who are you most excited to hear this year? Share your thoughts below!

Sucheta Ambekar Anirudha Ambekar

Sawai Gandharva Bhimsen Mahotsav https://www.instagram.com/sawaigandharva/?hl=en

🎻🎤

One can book tickets online https://www.ticketkhidakee.com/sawaimahotsav2024

Hindustani Classical Music And Everything

17/12/2024

A Legend Beyond Time: Remembering Ustad Zakir Hussain

Today, we bid farewell to Ustad Zakir Hussain, a tabla virtuoso whose music transcended boundaries and whose spirit touched countless hearts. As we grieve, we celebrate the profound legacy of a man whose artistry and humanity continue to inspire.
What set Ustad ji apart was not just his unmatched mastery over rhythm, but a profound humility that defined his artistic journey. During his legendary performances with masters like Pandit Ravi Shankar, he would invariably bow with deep reverence, demonstrating that true greatness lies in respect, not stature.

Even as one of the world’s most celebrated musicians, he consistently honored those who came before him, embodying the true essence of classical musical tradition.

I can still recall those magical performances where, as the tempo built and the audience erupted into applause, he would gently urge us to stop – “सुनो, पूरा सुनो” – encouraging us to experience the full essence of the piece. Such was his sure-footedness and confidence as an artist, guiding us to listen to music, not just react to it.

He was a beautiful bridge between tradition and modernity. Through Shakti (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shakti_(band))
, his groundbreaking fusion ensemble, he showcased the transformative power of musical collaboration. Joining forces with jazz musicians like John McLaughlin, he created a revolutionary sound that blended Indian classical rhythms with global musical languages, proving that true art knows no boundaries.

And then there is "Abbaji ki Barsi", the annual concert held in honor of his father, Ustad Allah Rakha. More than a memorial, this event was a festival of pure music. Bringing together extraordinary musicians from around the world, Zakir ji ensured these performances were free and accessible to all, embodying his belief that music is a universal language of connection.
Ustad Zakir Hussain wasn’t just a musician; he was a storyteller, a guide, and a custodian of rhythm. His hands could transform the tabla into waves, whispers, and roars – always speaking directly to the human heart.
As we remember this irreplaceable soul, we celebrate his music, his humility, and his enduring legacy. The beats may have quieted, but the rhythm he set will continue to resonate for generations.
“To the man who taught us that rhythm is not just heard but felt – Rest in rhythm, Ustad ji. Your music will forever echo in the hearts you touched.”

Some links to memorable performances to watch

Zakir Hussain and Rakesh Chaurasia
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O2K0ptoYpuc

Zakir Hussain and Sivamani

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=koPQHgJDMhs

Shakti Band
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shakti_(band)

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/tabla-maestro-zakir-hussain-passes-away-at-73-all-you-need-to-know-about-his-life-family-career-and-legacy/articleshow/116352775.cms

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/toi-plus/arts-entertainment/im-muslim-wifes-catholic-daughters-were-baptised-and-my-musics-universal-zakir-hussain/articleshow/116363145.cms

https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/music/zakir-hussain-death-tabla-maestro-tribute-obituary/article68990646.ece

12/12/2024

🎨Artistic Journey at Dastkari Haat: A Cultural Celebration! 🌈
This is my third year exploring the magical world of Dastkari Haat exhibition at Dutch Palace, Pune - and this time, I went with my Boho Girl Tribe , all dressed in stunning purple! 💜
What makes this exhibition truly special? It’s a vibrant canvas showcasing India’s rich artistic heritage!
Unexpected Treasure: I discovered an absolute gem of a book - “Inspirations for Graphic Design from India” - a visual feast that beautifully captures the depth and diversity of Indian graphic design traditions. This book is a must-have for design enthusiasts, offering a deep dive into the rich visual vocabulary of Indian art and design.
🖌Highlights of the Exhibition:
Over 100 stalls celebrating tribal and traditional art forms
Workshops diving deep into cultural crafts like Madhubani, Gond, Surpur, and Phad paintings
A special focus on Surpur art - a mesmerizing folk art form from a small Karnataka town, typically created using waterproof micron pens
Treasures from Across India:
Rajasthan’s luxurious Pattu woolen fabrics
Intricate Mirzapur rugs from Uttar Pradesh
Delicate Willow Wicker Craft from Jammu and Kashmir
Robust iron crafts from Chhattisgarh
Natural dye weaving from Gujarat
Exquisite Kantha embroidery from West Bengal
A true paradise for art lovers, where every stall tells a unique story of India’s incredible craftsmanship! 👑🎊

30/11/2024

🎵 When Music Becomes Pure Bliss: Mitra Mahotsav Magic 🎼

Mitra Mahotsav was more than a concert—it was an experience where music touched the soul and brought pure joy.

Jayanti & R Kumaresh - Musical Storytellers
Their performance wasn’t just music; it was a conversation. They showed us how Hindustani music flows with emotion while Carnatic music speaks with intelligence. Watching them play together felt like witnessing a perfect harmony—no words needed.

Savani Shende - A Voice for every season
Her Raag Jog piece, (पिया घर आवेंगे) Piya Ghar Aawenge, was filled with feeling of longing, and her self-composed Hemant Ritu bandish was like poetry in music.
The line "पतिया झडण लागी / डार डार से पतिया झडण लागी " made us feel the quiet beauty of हेमंत ऋतू (late autumn) through sound. 🍂

Raghunandan Panashikar
His बोलावा विठ्ठल - पहावा विठ्ठल (Bolava Vitthal - pahava vitthal) brought peace to everyone who listened.

More Than Just Music
This wasn’t just a show. It was pure bliss. A moment to let go of the noise around us and find peace in every note.

Were you there? What moved you the most? Share your thoughts!

Anirudha Ambekar Sucheta Ambekar

29/11/2024

✨ Welcome to "स्वाद, सरगम और सफर"! ✨
Hi everyone! 👋
We’re so excited to welcome you to our little corner of the internet where we share the things we love most:
🥘 स्वाद (Taste) – From street food adventures to exploring unique cuisines and hidden culinary gems, we’re here to take your taste buds on a delicious ride.
🎵 सरगम (Melody) – Whether it’s attending soulful concerts, enjoying street performances, or discovering new music, we’ll share the tunes that inspire us.
✈️ सफर (Travel) – Traveling fuels our souls, and we can’t wait to take you along as we wander through scenic destinations, bustling bazaars, and cultural wonders.
This page is all about exploring life’s flavors, rhythms, and journeys, one moment at a time. 🌏💫
We’d love for you to:
✅ Follow us to stay updated on our latest adventures.
✅ Share your favorite food, music, or travel memories in the comments!
Together, let’s create a community where we can share stories, experiences, and recommendations that inspire us to live fully and joyfully. ❤️
Thank you for joining us – let’s get started!
#स्वादसरगमसफर