Sep 25 2025 to Sep 25 2025 7 p.m.

Where

Bangalore International Centre

7 4th Main Rd, Stage 2, Domlur 560071

Event Description

A voice shaped by tradition, carried forward with imagination.

Trained in the revered lineages of the Gwalior, Jaipur, and Agra gharanas, vocalist Shiv Prasad Rao brings to life the timeless art of khayal gayaki. His music is a delicate balance: lyrical and intricate, contemplative yet deeply expressive, rooted in parampara but alive with improvisation.

In this performance, he presents traditional compositions in the styles of his gharanas, shaped by his own distinctive approach to lyrical and rhythmic improvisation. The result is not just your average recital, but an immersion into the evolving, ever-resonant world of Hindustani classical music.

Enhancing this evening’s performance are two remarkable artists whose journeys reflect equal dedication. Vighnesh Bhagavat Yellapur, Hindustani classical vocalist and harmonium player, brings a blend of rigour and sensitivity, enriching every raga with depth and clarity. On tabla, Kaustuv, channels a lifetime of rhythmic exploration. Praised for his precision and vitality, he anchors and elevates the music with subtlety and power.

Together, these artists create a tapestry of melody, rhythm, and improvisation—an evening of Hindustani classical music where tradition meets spontaneity and rhythm flows seamlessly into melody.

Supported by:

Performers

Shiv Prasad Rao
Vocals
Shiv Prasad Rao is a Hindustani classical vocalist acclaimed for his mastery of the Gwalior, Jaipur, and Agra gharanas. Trained first in tabla, he later studied vocal music with his father, Pt. Maheshwar Rao, and received advanced taleem from Pt. Vikas Kashalkar of Pune. An “A-Grade” artist of All India Radio and empanelled with ICCR, he holds Sangeet Visharad and Sangeet Alankar degrees. His honours include the Sangeet Saadhak, Sangeet Ratna, Guru Ravi Jain Award, and Swarveni Ratna. Widely performed across India, he also serves as a music expert with Doordarshan Archives and teaches at Gandharva Mahavidyalaya, New Delhi.

Vighnesh Bhagavat Yellapur
Harmonium
Vighnesh Bhagavat Yellapur is a Hindustani classical vocalist and harmonium player whose artistry balances rigour and sensitivity. He began his training with Vidwan Dattatraya Gaonkar of Yellapur and now continues under the guidance of renowned harmonium maestro Pt. Vyasamurthi Katti. A Gold Medalist in M.Music (Hindustani Vocal) from KSGH Music and Fine Arts University, Mysore, he earlier earned his B.Music from Karnataka Fine Arts and Music College, Dharwad. Vighnesh has performed with leading musicians and peers alike, earning recognition for his nuanced accompaniment, refined vocal style, and deep understanding of raga music.

Kaustuv Swain
Tabla
Kaustuv’s musical journey began at the age of two, guided by his father, Guru Shri Jitendra Kumar Swain, and vocalist Mandakini. Drawn especially to rhythm, he trained in tabla and percussion before moving to the West Indies at nine. Once there, he rigorously pursued tabla under his father’s guidance. At eleven, he gave his first solo recital to wide acclaim, including a performance at the University of West Indies. Later, his playing impressed Taalyogi Pt. Suresh Talwalkar, who accepted him as a disciple. A CCRT scholarship holder, Kaustuv is a ‘B-high grade’ artiste with All India Radio, Delhi.