Nagpur, 1 August 2026

The three-day 33rd Dr. Vasantrao Deshpande Memorial Music Festival, organised by the South Central Zone Cultural Centre (SCZCC), Nagpur from July 29 to 31, concluded with a grand finale on Friday. The festival, held in memory of legendary vocalist and actor Dr. Vasantrao Deshpande, witnessed an overwhelming response from music lovers, with large audiences attending on all three days.

The final day's programme commenced with an enchanting flute recital by Padma Shri Pt. Ronu Majumdar. He opened his performance with Raag Ramdasi Malhar and later presented Raag Sur Malhar, Marathi Natya Sangeet, and traditional compositions, concluding with the popular Marathi abhang Majhe Maher Pandhari. He was accompanied by Ajinkya Joshi on tabla, Omkar Dalvi on pakhawaj, and Kalpesh Sachla on flute.

The second presentation featured renowned vocalist and composer Dr. Bharat Balvalli, who rendered a captivating Hindustani classical vocal recital. His repertoire included compositions in Raag Durga and Raag Jhinjhoti, a self-composed devotional bhajan, and a musical tribute to legendary singer Master Deenanath Mangeshkar. He concluded his performance with a soulful rendition in Bhairavi. He was accompanied by Makarand Kundale on harmonium, Ramakrishna Karambelkar on tabla, and Dr. Dada Parab on pakhawaj.

During the programme, SCZCC Deputy Director Mithila Talwanekar felicitated Deepak Kulkarni, Assistant Director (Programme), and former Programme Executive Shashank Dande with shawls and mementoes in recognition of their long-standing contribution to the successful organisation of the festival.

The festival was compered by Renuka Deshkar. The successful organisation of the event was made possible under the guidance of SCZCC Director Aastha Karlekar, Deputy Director Mithila Talwanekar, Assistant Director (Programme) Deepak Kulkarni, along with the dedicated efforts of the Centre’s officers and staff.

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Saurabh Khekde/Parshuram Kor

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