MPs, FAITH leaders and fans of Indian classical music attended a Music for Healing symposium at the House of Lords on May 21.
Conservative MP Bob Blackman, a co-chairman of the All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Indian Traditional Sciences, spoke about the healing powers of music and suggested it be made available in hospitals.
There were performances by Katrina Rute, a dancer trained in the Indian classical dance styles of Kathak, Bharatnatyam and Odissi; and Shreyna Patnaik, who started learning classical dance at the age of five in India and then continued at Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan in London.
Vocalist Vaishali Govilkar, who obtained her training in Uttar Hindustani classical music, spoke about the role of specific Ragas in India to treat certain health conditions.
Sugato Bhaduri, one of the most sought-after mandolin players in the world, also performed at the event.
Prof Peter Warburton, the head of the Maharishi Organisation in the UK, elaborated on the wisdom of Indian classical music for its “therapeutic” effect and the work of the APPG Indian Traditional Sciences.
Vibha Mehdiretta, the deputy director at The Nehru Centre, London, paid tribute on behalf of the high commissioner of India, YK Sinha.
Lord Gadhia concluded the programme with presenting all artists with a sacred white garland.
