Ragas and records: Gwalior’s tribute to Indian heritage

The city of Gwalior, known for its rich cultural heritage and deep musical roots, recently became the epicentre of a unique celebration of art and music through Raga aur Ranga. This extraordinary art exhibition, presented by artist Deepankar Goswami and curated by Kriti Trivedi, is being held between December 15 and December 19, 2024, at the historic Moti Mahal in Gwalior. It offers visitors a symphonic confluence of visual art and Hindustani classical music.

The event was inaugurated by Sheo Shekhar Shukla, Principal Secretary of Tourism and Culture and Managing Director of the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board. In his inaugural address, Shukla emphasised on the significance of such initiatives, stating, “This exhibition not only celebrates music and visual art but also reminds us of our responsibility to carry forward this extraordinary heritage to the younger generations. That itself speaks volumes about our rich traditions and culture, and the way the Madhya Pradesh government celebrates it every year.”

The 'Raag Rang' exhibition at Moti Mahal, Gwalior

Raga aur Ranga provides a feast for art and music enthusiasts, featuring a series of artworks inspired by ragas, classical Indian melodies. Goswami’s masterpieces transform the essence of ragas like Yaman, Bhairavi and Darbari into vivid strokes of colour on canvas. His art reflects the dynamic interplay of darkness and light, mirroring the tranquil evening notes of Yaman and the serene morning tones of Bhairav. Visitors could almost hear the music in every brushstroke, making the experience profoundly immersive.

Adding another layer of grandeur to the event was its coinciding with the 100th year of the iconic Tansen Music Festival, one of the oldest and most prestigious classical music festivals in India. This year, the Tansen Music Festival made headlines by setting a Guinness World Record, with 536 artistes performing together at the historic Gwalior Fort, showcasing the cultural and musical legacy of India on a global stage.

Chief Minister Mohan Yadav highlighted the strong bond between Indian culture and music, emphasising its ability to awaken the soul and energise the body. He also discussed the spiritual importance of musical instruments in Indian tradition, referencing examples such as Lord Shiva’s damru and Lord Krishna’s flute.

This milestone achievement was celebrated as a significant cultural triumph, further enhancing the prominence of Gwalior as a hub for music and art. Shukla reflected on the occasion, stating, “The Tansen Festival and exhibitions like these are a testimony to Gwalior’s unmatched legacy in music and art. As we celebrate 100 years of the festival, it’s a proud moment for us to promote such initiatives that enrich both residents and visitors alike.”

He also highlighted the broader impact of these events on cultural tourism, underscoring the importance of reconnecting with one’s roots. “Our own country has so much to offer. Many people fly out to see other countries and praise their culture. That’s perfectly fine, but my message to them is: see your pradesh (country), and first of all, Madhya Pradesh. Events like these are aimed at reaching out to the people and showcasing our rich heritage.”