By OUR STAFF REPORTER
Dehradun, 20 Aug: The Society for the Promotion of Indian Classical Music Among Youth (SPIC MACAY) announced the SPIC MACAY State Convention 2024 at a press conference held today. The convention, a vibrant celebration of Indian culture and art, is scheduled to take place from 22 to 24 August at Unison World School in Dehradun.
Addressing the media, the Chairperson of the SPIC MACAY Uttarakhand Chapter, Vidya Vasan, said, “The convention is set to host an array of renowned artists, promising an enriching experience for all attendees. Distinguished performers, including Padma Bhushan awardee Vid. Sudha Raghunathan, Padma Bhushan awardee Pt Vishwa Mohan Bhatt, Dr Arshiya Sethi, SNA Awardees Vid. Parvathy Baul and Pt Kushal Das, and YSNA Awardee Pt Omkar Dadarkar, along with many other artists, are set to grace the convention with their performances and insights.”
“The three-day-long convention will also feature workshops for students from various participating schools. These workshops include Tabla by Akram Khan, Odissi Dance by Anushua Chaudhury, Tie & Dye by Babu Lal Nama, Patua Painting by Bappa Chitrakar, Kathak by Deepak Maharaj, Carnatic Vocal by Delhi R Sridhar, Kangra Painting by Dhani Ram, Saraikela Mask Making by Dilip Acharya, Hindustani Vocal by Vijaya Godbole, Kuchipudi by T Reddi Lakshmi, Bharatanatyam by Sayani Chakraborty, Kathak by Sangeeta Dastidar, Sikki Grass Craft by Ruby Devi, Gond Painting by Ravi Tekam, Theatre by Ramchandra Singh, and Hindustani Vocal by Omkar Dadarkar,” said Lalit Mohan Purohit.
Vidya added, “The convention at showcasing the rich cultural tapestry of India to students of Uttarakhand. Under the guidance of celebrated artists and master craftspersons, they will delve into the nuances of traditional art and craft, enriching their understanding and appreciation of India’s cultural heritage.”
She further stated, “Many schools from in and around Dehradun are taking part in this convention, including Sunrise Academy, Hill Foundation School, Hopetown School, Himjyoti School, PYDS, Mussoorie International School, Oasis School, Adroit Progressive School, GGIC Rajpur Road, Maa Anandmayee Memorial School, Rajhans Public School, Doon Girls School, and Unison World School among several others. Around 100 students from the Kumaon and Garhwal region will also be participating as resident delegates.”
Principal of Unison World School, Dr Mona Khanna shared her anticipation, saying, “It is with great pride and excitement that Unison World School opens its doors to the SPIC MACAY State Convention, a celebration of India’s timeless cultural treasures. This three-day convention promises to be a confluence of cultures, united in celebration. We eagerly await the arrival of distinguished artists and passionate participants as we immerse ourselves in an experience that will resonate in our hearts and minds for years to come.”
She added, “During the three-day-long convention, students and attendees will have the unique opportunity to witness a diverse range of classical performances by outstanding artists of India, engage in intensives with eminent gurus, learn yogic techniques and various art forms, immerse themselves in insightful talk sessions, and participate in hands-on workshops conducted by the renowned artists themselves.”
Entry to the SPIC MACAY convention is by invitation only, and anyone interested in attending the three-day-long state convention can collect invitation cards from Pratap Music House, English Book Depot, WIC Club, and Doon Library.