Leading classicists converge at Kolkata Fusion Fiesta

Bringing together all leading names of city's classical fraternity, 'Kolkata Fusion Fiesta' tonight called for an end to violence, particulalry abuse of women. "We the childhood friends of Tanmoy Bose, the man behind the global music event, and his seniors are all here to support his initiative to blend different strands of music, which is a novel and truly unique exercise in Kolkata and different from other fusion meets elsewhere," Rhythmscape man Bickram Ghosh said at the festival. Bickram was flanked by Pt Ustad Rashid Khan, Pt Tejendra Narayan Majumder, young classical musician Pt Purbayan Chatterjee at Kolkata fusion fiesta, held in assitance with American Center. "The meet is also aimed at showcasing Kolkata in the map of world music, as a bridge between the contemporary and classical. Kolkata has such a rich tapestry of musical heritage and boasts of so many talents. It will further help in cementing the bond among music fraternity members," Tanmoy said. On the issue of the Fusion Fiesta's call to prevent abuses of women, Tanmoy said "We worship 'Stree Shakti' at home but yet it is in our land that women bear the brunt of violence. All of us having assembled here take the pledge that it has to stop, women should be treated with respect." "Music purifies the soul and can act as miracle as the best therapy against violence," internationally known drummer Sivamani said before blending his drum beats with other notes to recreate a synchronised effect along with Chandana Bala- Harmeet Manseta. A part of the proceeds from the festival will go to two NGOs, working for women's uplift while famed sculptor Sanatan Dinda will chisel an artwork live to the accompaniment of music as the festival progressed. Organised by Celebrations International Trilok Gurtu & Friends (Ravi Chary- Sheldon D'silva-Sangeet Haldipur) besides Mother Jane and Prem Joshua will regale the ciity audiences along with baul singers and young artistes from here.