Musical Evening Explores the Influence of the Upanishads on Tagore’s Songs

A unique musical evening titled "Tagore and the Journey with the Upanishads" brought together artists from Kolkata and London at the Indian Museum on May 26, exploring the profound influence of the Upanishads on Rabindranath Tagore’s songs. Presented by renowned Rabindra Sangeet exponent Dr. Ananda Gupta and his organisation, Dakshinayan UK, the programme blended music, dance, and philosophy to highlight the spiritual foundations of Tagore’s work.

Adding a special dimension to the evening were dance presentations conceptualised by danseuse Dona Ganguly and Raghunath Das. Artists from Diksha Manjari brought the performances to life, creating visual interpretations of the themes embedded in Tagore’s music.

The event focused on the monotheistic vision and concept of a formless divine presence that deeply shaped Tagore’s Brahma Sangeet and devotional compositions. The programme also acknowledged the influence of Raja Ram Mohan Roy and the Brahmo Samaj on Tagore’s spiritual outlook.

Several songs traditionally associated with Brahmo prayer halls were performed, including Chirosokha Chhero Na by Dr. Ananda Gupta, Tomar Ashime by Ronit Kuri, Shrinwantu Bishwe by Sougata Shankha Banik, and Khanchar Pakhi Chhilo by Sridhara Gupta. The musical arrangement was led by Subrata Mukherjee, with rhythmic accompaniment by Biplab Mondal, creating an evening that celebrated the enduring philosophical and spiritual legacy of Tagore.