The Aryavarth Express
Agency(Bengaluru): Launching into its 16th year, the Bengaluru International Arts Festival (BIAF) 2024 is set to unfold over five days, beginning on March 22nd at the esteemed Chowdiah Memorial Hall, Bengaluru. The inaugural evening will feature a captivating Jugalbandi by Dr. Suma Sudhindra and Ronu Majundar at 6.30 p.m., followed by a Carnatic musical ensemble led by Abhishek Raghuram at 7.45 p.m.
This year, the festival is dedicated to commemorating the centenary of the iconic Pandit Kumar Gandharva, with a special tribute planned on the fourth day. The highlight includes a performance by Bhuvanesh Komkali, the maestro’s grandson, who will present a Hindustani vocal recital in honor of his grandfather’s enduring legacy.
The festival boasts an impressive lineup of performances from celebrated artists such as Sangeetha Katti and Venkatesh Kumar, among others. Additionally, attendees can look forward to “Pratibodhana – The Awakening,” a dance production by Rama Vaidyanathan and team, and “Silapadhikarama,” a dance drama envisioned by Lalitha Das and brought to life by Veena Murthy Vijay’s choreography. The festival will also feature “Marma,” a fusion of spiritual and philosophical poetry transcending linguistic and genetic barriers.
Concluding with a commitment to environmental sustainability, the festival will end on March 31 with a sapling planting ceremony aimed at fostering a “Green Bengaluru” through community and student engagement.
Hosted by the Artiste’s Introspective Movement (AIM) and held in collaboration with the Academy of Music, Department of Kannada & Culture, Government of Karnataka, and the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, BIAF serves as a beacon of Bengaluru’s dynamic cultural heritage. Dr. Veena Murthy Vijay, the festival’s director, expressed enthusiasm for this year’s edition, emphasizing its role in celebrating the rich tapestry of classical music and dance, and inviting art lovers to partake in the festivities.
For those eager to join the celebration of art, music, and culture, tickets are available on BookMyShow, offering an opportunity to dive into the profound depths of musical bliss.