By Uday Kamath (05/01/2023)
An unforgettable night for a full house! In an oversubscribed, sold-out concert, nearly 400 people crammed into the Barns at Wolf Trap to witness the enchanting performance of Hindustani classical queen – Kaushiki Chakraborty ji.
The 2023 season finale of District of Raga and Wolf Trap featured Kaushiki ji, accompanied by Tanmay Deochake ji on harmonium, Murad Ali Khan ji on sarangi, and Sandip Ghosh ji on tabla. Kaushiki ji’s performance included a bada khayal in Raag Bhagyashree, followed by two thumris in Pilu, the popular audience requests of Salona sa Sajan hai, and a bhajan in Raag Bhairavi. Her layakari, vocal flexibility, mastery of various vocal techniques, rich tonal quality, and robust taans and sargams delighted the audience. Her swift taans spanning three octaves were incredibly captivating. As anticipated, the concert was impeccable and flawless. Kaushiki ji has discovered the magic formula that appeals to a broader audience beyond classical music connoisseurs and experts. Her stage presence, charismatic personality, ease, meticulous attention to detail, and amiable demeanor make her concerts an audio-visual delight. The accompaniment by Tanmay Deochake ji, Sandip Ghosh ji, and Murad Ali Khan ji was undeniably exceptional. Tanmay ji’s harmonium and Murad ji’s sarangi felt like additional vocalists on stage. Sandip ji’s jhumra taal in particular, and accompaniment on tabla in general, further elevated the performance, showcasing their seamless harmony and mutual understanding on stage.
For their assistance in organizing, helping, behind the scene work, and setting up this unforgettable event, gratitude to Sunetra, Anil, Manjula ji, Subashsish ji, Anupama, everyone who came and helped, and the organizer Nistha ji.
