The next Barkha Ritu event coincides with Independence Day and celebrates 25 years since Banyan Tree launched its monsoon concert series. This edition features flautist S Shashank along with vocalists Sanjeev Abhyankar and Ashwini Bhide.
India maintains a tradition of seasonal melodies. Co-founder Nandini Mahesh explained that the festival highlights monsoon ragas performed both instrumentally and vocally. These pieces remain unfamiliar to many because they are presented only during the rainy season.
The series started in Mumbai and later reached Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad and Pune. This year it extends to Tier-II cities including Hubballi and Belgaum. The goal is to introduce listeners to rare ragas such as Chaya Malhar, Meerabai Malhar and Dhuliya Malhar, as well as familiar ones like Miyan ki Malhar and Megh.
Vocal renditions gain depth from lyrics that describe nature, flora and fields. Instrumental performances also carry distinct appeal. Nandini recalled late pakhawaj maestro Bhavani Shankar, whose playing evoked thunderclouds during a 20-minute segment.
Seasonal ragas belong mainly to the Hindustani tradition. Recent editions have invited South Indian musicians to perform rain-themed pieces such as Amrutvarshini. The program will include jugalbandis blending both classical styles.
The concert supports Tender Roots Academy of Performing Arts, which preserves endangered Indian art forms. The initiative began after organizers noticed few young attendees and now introduces schoolchildren to cultural heritage through artist visits, child-focused festivals and scholarships.
Tender Roots also works to sustain folk traditions. One project offers stipends for students to learn the kamaicha, a rare stringed instrument from Rajasthan, under senior masters. Skilled students perform at Banyan Tree events. Similar support helps preserve traditional lyrics and compositions.
Barkha Ritu takes place at Chowdiah Memorial Hall on August 15 at 6:30 pm. Tickets start at ₹750 and are available on BookMyShow.
