Classical fusion music unites traditions anew

Lucknow: A blend of classical fusion music in ‘Lai Aur Sur Ka Safr’, an event organised by Taal Yatra enthralled the audience with a blend of tabla, folk and Western musical traditions at Rai Umanath Bali Auditorium on Wednesday.Dedicated to tabla maestros Ustad Allah Rakha and Zakir Hussain, the evening celebrated the enduring legacy of Indian classical music through a series of vibrant performances. The programme opened with an energetic tabla recital by the 11-member Raag Yatra International Fusion Band, led by Sheikh Ibrahim.The ensemble impressed the audience with its coordination and seamless blend of intricate raags and rhythmic patterns.

Their compositions, based on raag Darbari, Pahadi in Dadra taal, drew strong appreciation. The second performance featured tabla artist Vidyut Ganguly, who displayed remarkable command over the instrument. His rendition of teental, along with a series of tukdas and kaydas, highlighted both technical finesse and creative expression, earning enthusiastic applause.The event concluded with a folk-inspired segment by Nalini Tripathi, Mudita Pandeya and Anshika. Their renditions of traditional songs such as ‘Gondna gode gondhnari’ and ‘Peesna peesan lagi’ brought a rustic flavour to the evening and underlined the continuing appeal of folk music in a contemporary setting. "The programme showcased the versatility of the tabla and the evolving nature of fusion music,” said Vartul Mishra, a listener.