
Pune, January 27: The rhythm of the pakhawaj, the beats of the tabla, the melodies of the violin, and the soulful vocals accompanied by a dance performance paying homage to Bharat Mata left thousands of attendees spellbound. The evening came alive with the musical tribute “Vandan Bharatmatela” performed by over 700 singers and instrumentalists.
For the first time in the country, MIT World Peace University and MIT Arts, Design, and Technology University jointly organized the program “Vandan Bharatmatela,” bringing together more than 700 musicians and vocalists for a grand performance at Vishwarajbaug, Loni Kalbhor. This event, centered on the spiritual essence of music, provided the audience with a divine and serene experience. It was a musical homage to commemorate the birth centenary of the late Raj Kapoor and pay tribute to Bharat Ratna Lata Mangeshkar.
The event began with the pakhawaj, considered the epitome of Indian classical music. Pandit Uddhavbapu Apegavkar initiated the program with the rhythms dedicated to Lord Shiva, Ganesha, and the Tandava dance. Hundreds of instrumentalists played in unison, captivating the audience.
Renowned tabla artist Ganesh Tanawade, along with his team, mesmerized the audience with his intricate beats. The outstanding performance was dedicated to the late Pandit Zakir Hussain. Violinist Tejas Upadhye struck a chord with the audience, leaving them enthralled by his soulful rendition.
During the program, hundreds of singers paid tribute to Raj Kapoor by performing timeless songs such as “Sajan Re Jhoot Mat Bolo,” “Mera Joota Hai Japani,” and “Jis Desh Mein Ganga Behti Hai.” A live dance performance accompanied the song “Mera Joota Hai Japani,” adding to the nostalgia.
Students performed a dance dedicated to Bharat Mata on the song “Vande Mataram.” The event concluded with the iconic “Ae Mere Watan Ke Logon” sung by over 700 vocalists and instrumentalists, bringing tears to the eyes of many in the audience.
The program concluded with traditional devotional bhajans and the collective recitation of Pasaydan, reflecting the MIT institution’s deep faith in the Warkari tradition.
Dr. Vishwanath D. Karad, Founder-President of MIT WPU, remarked, “This program, which offers divine realization and a sense of tranquility through the practice of music, represents Indian culture, traditions, and philosophy. The homage to Bharat Mata has brought immense inner peace and a profound spiritual experience today.”
The event was attended by notable dignitaries, including Yogi Amarnath, renowned entrepreneurs Firoz and Lila Poonawalla, Dr. Goyal, Dr. Batra, and Vinod Shah, alongside hundreds of individuals from educational, political, social, industrial, and economic sectors.
The Karad family, including Prof. Dr. Vishwanath D. Karad, H.B.P. Tulshiram Karad, Kashiram Karad, WPU Executive President Rahul Vishwanath Karad, Mrs. Usha Vishwanath Karad, Dr. Suchitra Karad-Nagre, Prof. Swati Karad-Chate, Jyoti Karad-Dhakne, and Poonam Nagargoje, were present in large numbers.
Additionally, MIT WPU Vice-Chancellor Dr. R.M. Chitnis, Pro Vice-Chancellor Dr. Milind Pande, Dr. Sanjay Upadhye, former Doordarshan Director Dr. Mukesh Sharma, and Adinath Mangeshkar also graced the event.
The program was skillfully hosted by Dr. Milind Pande, Dr. Milind Patre, and Dr. Shalini Tonpe.