On April 26, 2025, Dhaka resonated with the vibrant rhythms of tabla and the soulful melodies of classical ragas as Peshkar, a special musical event organized by Chhandakala on the occasion of Guru Purnima 2025, brought together an extraordinary assembly of young talents, veteran musicians, and music lovers from across Bangladesh.

Held in a jubilant atmosphere filled with applause and reverence, the evening evolved into a rare confluence of generations—students and masters, teachers and disciples—celebrating the timeless bond of guru-shishya parampara through music.

The visionary behind the event, tabla maestro and founder of Chhandakala and lecturer, Govt. Music College, Md. Rashedul Hassan Jibon, expressed his aspiration to transform Chhandakala into a hub for pure cultural expression—a sanctuary where both established artists and promising learners can flourish side by side.

The event commenced with an inspiring speech by acclaimed tabla artist Swarup Hossain, setting the tone for an evening of deep musical immersion. Following addresses by special guests and the chief guest, the main program began with a mesmerizing group tabla performance by Chhandakala students.

The performances showcased an array of talents: Aparajita Saha, a disciple of renowned classical vocalist Purna Chandra Mondal, delivered a captivating khayal in Raag Patdeep. She was followed by young sarod players Ilham Fuljhuri Khan and Ishra Fuljhuri Khan, whose rendition of Raag Desh left the audience spellbound.

Imamur Rashid Khan, a respected music guru, led his students from Arohi Sangeet Niketan in a powerful group vocal performance. Subsequently, celebrated classical vocalist and lecturer, Govt. Music College, Saiful Taankar presented four of his disciples—Pronami Poddar, Priyonti Poddar, Arya Shreshta Ghosh, and Sudip Dutta Ahon—each performing a khayal in Raag Shuddha Sarang, Puriya Dhaneshree, Yaman, and Jog respectively, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.

One of the highlights of the evening was a stirring group violin recital led by Dr. Shiuli Bhattacharya, with her ensemble Sarvajaya creating a rich, orchestral experience.

While classical music remained the evening’s centerpiece, the program also featured semi-classical and Bengali songs. Oorbee Som, teacher, Govt. Music College and Shovon Majumdar performed Bengali raga based song and ghazal, while disciples of noted Nazrul Sangeet artist Dr. Chhanda Chakraborty presented Nazrul Sangeet. The program concluded with Sajib’s energetic solo tabla recital and songs by Murad Hossain and Srikrishna Gopal, who performed traditional folk songs.

The evening’s significance was elevated by the presence of distinguished guests. Chief guest Professor Krishtee Hefaz, Principal of Government Music College and a renowned cultural personality, honored the occasion with her insights. Special guests included Professor Induprava Das, former principal of Manikganj Govt. Women’s College, Professor Nadia Soma Samad, Vice Principal of Government Music College, and Assistant Professor Swarup Hossain from the Department of Music, University of Dhaka.

“Peshkar” wasn’t just a concert—it was a heartfelt tribute to tradition, a vibrant celebration of learning, and a promising glimpse into the future of Bangladeshi classical music.