Renowned Vocalist Pt. Ulhas Kashalkar Shines at the 102nd Sankat Mochan Sangeet Samaroh
The concluding nightlong session of the 102nd Sankat Mochan Sangeet Samaroh in Varanasi was a spectacle of classical music, with the courtyard of the Sankat Mochan temple bustling with devotees. Despite the busy environment, Pt. Ulhas Kashalkar, a deeply spiritual vocalist, remained focused and composed.
Kashalkar began his performance with a few swars to check the mic, then moved on to sing the slow Tilwada bandish, which was beautifully highlighted by Pt. Suresh Talwalkar’s tabla. The cajoling passages of behlawa drew the attention of even lay listeners, setting the stage for the popular chhota khayal and tarana.
Before closing the recital with a bhajan, Kashalkar was requested to perform a jod raag. He delivered a masterclass in Sankeerna (narrow) raags, where two or more raags move simultaneously. His performance of Saanjh Swaravali, invented by Ustad Vilayat Khan, showcased a bouquet of multi-hued flowers, blending Malkauns and Bahar seamlessly.
Kashalkar explained his method and approach when pairing raags that are poles apart. He emphasized the importance of familiarity with raags and the need to get familiar with the total structures of raags, along with their resting places, junctions, and turning points. This helped him open the fountainhead of new, challenging melodies.
As someone who is a master of the Gwalior, Jaipur, and Agra gharanas, Kashalkar mixes gharana specialties for a thrilling innovation. He adheres to the sanctity of each gharana, guarding its unique characteristics and set patterns for embellished gayaki.
Kashalkar’s performance at the 2025 edition of the Sankat Mochan Sangeet Samaroh was a testament to his mastery and dedication to classical music.
