Event of the Year:
Madhukali & Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya's
presentation
Prathama
(Trail Blazers )
Museum of Mankind Campus , Bhopal (M.P)
From 6th December to 10th December 2006
The event was organized under the theme, "Women and Cultural Heritage". Women have always been associated with music, but in the recent past, their role was more supportive than leading. Music was also looked down upon in certain parts of India and it was with committed labour of Pt. Vishnu Naryan Bhatkhande and Pt. Vishnu Digambar Paluskar that its original glory was partially restored. Sometimes with encouragement, but often without it, women started espousing music more aggressively.
Fifteen women, who with their inclination, zeal and determination opened the musical doors to hitherto taboo preserves, were invited to uplift the spirits of fellow citizens with a glimpse of their pioneering achievements in various fields of Indian Classical Music from veena to ghatam, pakhawaj to jaltarang.
The first ever event of its kind, it showcased Women artistes, who started playing a musical instrument reserved hitherto only for the male performer. The artistes, their accompanists, music scholars and enthusiasts were also provided with an opportunity of sharing their experiences throughout the five-day long event while enjoying each other's performances during the evening. A compilation of their forays into lonesome musical journey was collected and would be published shortly.
Madhukali has been a pioneer in organizing theme based events that bring focus to some aspect of contemporary culture. Personal association with artistes, litterateurs, thinkers as well as organizations has empowered and encouraged Madhukali to take up such ventures successfully. Assistance from like-minded individuals, organizations is welcome.
For information and feedback about Prathama event and Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya contact Professor Kishor K. Basa, Director on homosapien@sancharnet.in or Fax 91-755-2661458
