CHANDIGARH, March 30: The 29th Bhaskar Rao Nritya and Sangeet Sammelan came to an end this evening as it began with two promising youngsters leaving the audience spellbound. If it was the Bangash duo on the first day, it was the Mishra brothers on the last day which left clear indications to the way the winds of change are taking over the Hindustani classical realm.Ritesh and Rajnish Mishra, sons of Rajan Mishra [ of the famous Rajan-Sajan Mishra duo], were perfection personified throughout the evening. From the moment they commenced in raag Yeman, it was just one factor that lingered on everyone's mind: that the sons will shine far better than the senior lot in the classical circuit. For there was not a single moment of ennui, not a single note gone astray and no faltering anywhere. It was a very mature performance one got from the handsome twosome; and exactly like the seniors.
The synchronisation, the resonant voice and the vast range of the pitch made the concert something unforgettable. And as the senior Mishras watched from among the audience, the young men brought down the rendition with a soul-stirring `tarana' that spoke of their potential and calibre. To enhance both, there were Mehmood Dholpuri, the constant companion of their elders, with fine illustrations on harmonium and Pawan Kumar, our cityman, and his apt handwork on tabla. And sticking to their elders' style, Ritesh and Rajnish did not forget to dole out a beautiful composition in raag Durga. And made it no less memorable too.
Copyright © 1998 Indian Express Newspapers (Bombay) Ltd.