Skip to content
Search

Latest Stories

Why sarod virtuoso Debasmita Bhattacharya loves performing on stage

Why sarod virtuoso Debasmita Bhattacharya loves performing on stage

THE pressure of being legendary sarod maestro Pandit Debasish Bhattacharya’s daughter did not deter Debasmita Bhattacharya from pursuing the same path.

The naturally gifted talent grew up in a musically rich environment, which included her acclaimed vocalist mother Sangita Bhattacharya and used all that learning to become one of the finest sarod players in the world.


She rose up to the challenge of following in the footsteps of illustrious parents by carving out a place for herself, with worldclass live performances. The sarod virtuoso will next headline the Utsav 2024 show at Harrow Arts Centre in London on July 21, with acclaimed Kathak exponent Ashwini Kalsekar and classical singer Swati Natekar.

 Eastern Eye caught up with the musician to discuss her magnificent journey and magical looking London show.

How do you reflect on your music journey so far?

Born into a musical family in West Bengal India, my journey as a sarod player has been a blessing. I started this journey at the age of four. Guided by my father Pandit Debasish Bhattacharya, a sarod maestro, my eminent vocalist mother Sangita Bhattacharya and my guru Padmabhushan Pandit Buddhadev Dasgupta, I have learned to see life and music as inseparable.

What first connected you to the sarod?

I was born into a musical family, surrounded by my father teaching his students or his performances, and listening to great maestros. This environment deeply intrigued me, but I feel that the sarod chose me rather than me choosing it.  How much does performing live mean to you? Every stage and every audience is a temple, where music becomes a form of worship. Each live performance is a spiritual connection beyond mere notes. That’s how I see it.

 How much are you looking forward to the Utsav 2024 show?

I am so thankful and happy to be invited by the amazing vocalist of this country, Swati Natekar ji, to pay shradhanjali (homage) to her veteran mother, the great Pandita Vidhushi Dr Sushila Pohankarji. I am looking forward to paying my respects to her.

What can we expect from your performance?

I have been blessed with gharanedar taleem from my gurus, presenting the Senia Shahjahanpur gharana. In my concerts, I strive to deliver the most authentic Indian classical music, blending my understanding and creativity from 30 years of learning. With God’s grace, I hope the UK audience will appreciate its true essence and rich heritage.

How do you feel being on stage?

I feel at home. It’s hard to express.

How does it feel when you’re on a line up with such distinguished artists as you are for Utsav 2024?

Every opportunity to present the authentic raga music is a blessing. For me, it is about the sincerity and quality that I try to present in every performance. I am looking forward to witnessing all the other artists at the festival.

According to you, what is the secret to a great live performance?

There is no secret. I think it is the hard work and being true to yourself. These are the only two things we can work on – the rest is up to the divine.

  What inspires you as an artist?

As a student of classical music, I am inspired by the profound spiritual depth that our music has. The wisdom of my teachers and joy of sharing, preserving its rich cultural heritage for future generations is something that I nurture every day.

Why should we all come to the Utsav 2024 show?

You should come to Utsav 2024 to celebrate the legacy of the maestro Sushila Pohankar ji. It’s not just any concert; it’s a musical pooja, promising a unique and deeply moving experience. I thank Swati (Natekar) ji for taking such a beautiful initiative and making us all part of it.

Utsav 2024 at Harrow Arts Centre in London on July 21. www.harrowarts.com and www.debasmita sarode.com

More For You

Eye Spy: Top stories from the world of entertainment

Shraddha Jain

Eye Spy: Top stories from the world of entertainment

FUNNY UK TOUR

The tidal wave of top Indian stand-up stars touring the UK continues with upcoming shows by Shraddha Jain this July. The hugely popular comedian – who has over a million Instagram followers – will perform her family-friendly show Aiyyo So Mini Things at The Pavilion, Reading (4), the Ondaatje Theatre, London (5), and The Old Rep Theatre, Birmingham (6). The 90-minute set promises an entertaining take on the mundane and uproarious aspects of everyday life.

Keep ReadingShow less
Asian leaders recognised in King's birthday honours list

Professor Jagtar Singh (Photo: Facebook)

Asian leaders recognised in King's birthday honours list

ASIAN health workers, academics, charity workers and campaigners are among those who have been recognised in the King’s birthday honours list announced tonight (13).

More than a thousand recipients have been awarded for their exceptional achievements, with a particular focus on those who have given their time to public service, according to the Cabinet Office.

Keep ReadingShow less
Air India

A view shows the wreckage of the tail section of an Air India aircraft, bound for London's Gatwick Airport, which crashed during take-off from airport in Ahmedabad. (Photo: Reuters)

Air India crash: Probe focuses on engine and flaps; safety checks ordered for 787 fleet

THE INVESTIGATION into the Air India crash that killed more than 240 people is focusing on the aircraft's engine, flaps, and landing gear.

The Indian aviation regulator has ordered safety checks on the airline’s entire Boeing 787 fleet, reported Reuters.

Keep ReadingShow less
BTS Poised for Full Comeback as 6 Members Exit Military

Jungkook, RM, and V return from military service as BTS shifts focus from solo journeys to full-group comeback

Getty Images

BTS set for full comeback as 6 members complete military service

It’s a moment fans around the world have been waiting for! BTS, the global K-pop sensation, is almost whole again. Six out of seven members of the South Korean boy band have now completed their mandatory military service, setting the stage for what could be the biggest music comeback in recent years.

Thousands of fans from across the globe have already descended on Seoul this week, many attending BTS Festa, an annual celebration marking the group’s anniversary. This year is extra special, as it coincides with the near-completion of the band’s military duties. The final member, SUGA, is set to be discharged on 21 June.

Keep ReadingShow less