Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia, the Indian classical flautist who has been feted and honoured on numerous occasions for his ‘unparalleled role and contribution to the world of Indian classical music’, will be performing at the Nepal Academy Hall, Kamaladi, on February 16. The concert, titled ‘Pandit Harirpasad Chaurasia Live in Nepal’, has been organised by the Jayshree Music Society, which has been working to promote classical music in the country for the past three years.

Chaurasia is a distinguished figure in the contemporary classical Indian music scene. He is also known for his collaborations with international artists including John McLaughlin, Jan Garbarek, and Ken Lauber.  The musician was awarded the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second highest civilian award in 1992, and has been honoured internationally by Amsterdam’s royal family and France’s Ministry of Culture. 

The Pandit plays in the North Indian tradition of Hindustani classical music and collaborated, most notably, with fellow classical musicians Brij Bhushan Kabra and Shivkumar Sharma on the 1967 record Call of the Valley, an album that played an instrumental role in introducing Indian music to western ears. In fact, artists such as George Harrison, David Crosby, Paul McCartney, Bob Dylan and Roger McGuinn are known to be fans of the record.

Chaurasia’s performance in Nepal will see him performing alongside tabala player Rabin L Shrestha as well as traditional Nepali drum players.  A fusion of North Indian classical music—played by one of India’s greats—and traditional Nepali percussion tunes will certainly not be something one gets to hear everyday. 

The concert will begin at 4:15 pm and last till 6:30 pm. Indian Ambassador Ranjit Rae will preside over the function as chief guest. Tickets are priced at Rs 1000, 1500, 2000, 3000 and 5000 respectively. Contact 9841205681 for details