CONCERT: Kalpana Zokarkar (vocals), Pt. Suresh Talwalkar (Tabla solo)

4 April
Bedekar Ganpati Mandir, Paud Road, Pune.

Kalpana Zokarkar
Indian Classical music today holds a significant position all over the globe for its ability to communicate a transcendent quality of emotion, which expresses something universal about the human condition. For the purpose, it needs those who stand in commitment to pursue this exercise with utmost dedication and will without which it is impossible to achieve the desired goal. Hailing from 'Gwalior' gharana, Kalpana Zokarkar is one of them. Fortunate to receive the mantel of a rich heritage which includes Ustad Rajjab Ali Khan of 'Dewas', her father and guru, Shree Krishnarao Majumdar (Mamasaheb) who had the rare opportunity of close contact with many stalwart vocalists; Pt. Bhaskar Rao Khandeparkar, Smt. Anjanibai Malpekar, Pt. S.N. Ratanjankar and many, one witnesses the complete blending of melodious voice bestowed by nature, in interaction with doyens of Indian Classical music and dedication towards pursuance of the inimitable style of rendering.

Pandit Suresh Talwalkar
Taalyogi Pandit Suresh Talwalkar, is one of the greatest Tabla exponents of the present times. As an accomplished artist and as a Guru, he has contributed immensely to the glorious tradition of Indian Classical Music.
Pandit Sureshji belongs to the illustrious “Keertankar” family of Shri Dholebuva. “Keertana” being a classical form of devotional and musical discourse, a liking for the classical music was inculcated in him right in the childhood. Further, at a very young age, his father Shri Dattatray Talwalkar initiated him into the art of “Tabla”. He then took his lessons from the veteran gurus, Pt. Pandharinath Nageshkar and Pt. Vinayakrao Ghangrekar. He also learnt the intricacies of Carnatic Layashastra ( a science of rhythm ), from the renowned Mridangam player Pt. Ramnad Ishwaran. This diverse training enabled Sureshji to imbide the subtleties of both, the North and the South Indian music, transforming him into a “solo performer” with unique expression.