Mysuru: In a unique musical celebration, the Mysuru Hindustani Musicians’ Association has organised a rare all-night Hindustani Music Concert this Saturday (Oct. 11) from 9 pm to 6 am, the next day.

In Hindustani classical music, specific ragas are traditionally performed at particular times of the day and night. However, since most concerts take place in the evening, music lovers seldom get an opportunity to listen to nocturnal ragas. To revive and relish these fading night melodies, Mysuru-based artistes and a select group of connoisseurs have come together to host this special event.

The venue for the programme is ‘Swaradhara’ auditorium in the KSRTC Layout. Well-known vocalists Veerabhadrayya Hiremath, Sharada Bhat Kattige,  Shrimathi Devi and Ramesh Kolkunda will present vocal recitals. Sameer Rao (Hindustani flute) and Chandan Kumar (Karnatak flute) will perform instrumental pieces.

There will also be tabla solos by Bhimashankar Bidanur, Panchami Bidanur, Dundayya, Ramesh Dhannur, Shubhanga Hebbar and Adarsh Shenoy.

Harmonium accompaniment will be provided by Shriram Bhat, Harikrishna and Ramesh Kolkunda, while Prithvi Bhaskar and Radhesh will support on violin and mridanga.

All-night Hindustani music  gatherings have a long history. The famous Sawai Gandharva Music Festival started by Pandit Bhimsen Joshi in Pune traditionally continued through the night.

In Kundagol, the Sawai Gandharva Festival still runs overnight for two days. Other prestigious overnight music celebrations include the musical segment of the Veereshwar Punyashrama Fair in Gadag, the Dover Lane Music Festival in Kolkata, ‘Saptak’ in Ahmedabad, and the ‘Harivallabh’ Festival in Jalandhar.

In Dharwad and Hubballi too, such concerts were once common, but over the years, with dwindling audience participation, they have been reduced to short er midnight sessions. Taking note of this trend and with the intent of recreating a rare, immersive musical experience, the organisers in Mysuru are seeking the support and presence of patrons and enthusiasts.

Given that listening through the night demands time, patience and dedication, the organisers have clarified that the programme is open only to those who can stay till dawn. Those interested in attending and experiencing the music can contact Dr. M.C. Manohar on Mob: 99012-25074.