Agra: Grammy Award-winning and Padma Bhushan recipient, renowned Mohini Veena maestro Pandit Vishwa Mohan Bhatt, emphasized that Indian classical music is not just an art form, but a spiritual discipline — a journey from Rajas to Sattva and a means to connect with the divine.
His mesmerizing classical music performance was held at Baikunthi Devi Girls’ College on October 8, 2025. The event was jointly organized by the Uttar Pradesh Ministry of Culture, SPIC MACAY, and Bhatkhande Music University.
During the program, Pandit Bhatt presented his acclaimed Mohini Veena performance, which captivated students and faculty alike. Interacting with the students, he answered their questions and highlighted the importance of classical music, inspiring them to take a genuine interest in this ancient art form. He urged them to move beyond blind imitation of Western music and embrace the depth of Indian classical traditions.
Students inquired about the creative process and conceptualization behind the Mohini Veena, and at their request, Pandit Bhatt even performed excerpts from his Grammy Award-winning compositions, leaving the audience spellbound.
Also present was his son and disciple, renowned string maestro Salil Bhatt, who shared that “There is no shortcut to success; continuous practice and dedication are the keys to achievement.”
Accompanying the performance, top-grade tabla artist Himanshu Manhat from All India Radio provided rhythmic support. The program was hosted and vote of thanks delivered by students Anjali, Neha Sharma, and Madhavi.
College Principal Prof. Poonam Singh urged the youth to preserve and promote India’s rich classical music heritage. Special guests included Prof. Vandana Agrawal, Principal of VD Jain Girls’ College, Rajshree Bhadoria, Coordinator at SPIC MACAY, and Mr. Avadhesh Gupta, President of the College Management Committee. Several faculty members, including Prof. Poonam Rani Gupta, Bindu Awasthi, Sunita Chauhan, Gunjan, Anupam Saxena, and doctors Kanchan, Rekha, Vandana, Ekta, Vinita Gupta, Krishnawala, and Shailja, were also in attendance.
