Led by an impressive ensemble of renowned musicians, the concert seamlessly blended traditional compositions with contemporary interpretations, creating a unique aural experience that transported the audience from the bustling streets of Delhi to the rugged landscapes of Kabul.
Each musician brought their distinctive style to the performance, contributing to a harmonious and captivating evening that celebrated the beauty of cross-cultural connections. From the vibrant rhythms of the tabla to the haunting melodies of the sarangi, bansuri, and rubab, the music reflected the complex yet harmonious relationship between two distinct nations.
"We enjoyed the performances and learning about the rich tradition of our history and heritage,” said attendee Rizwan Ali. “The music felt like it belonged to me, and I could really relax and connect with it."
The Performers
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Sandeep Das, the Grammy-winning tabla maestro, was the show’s lead performer, recognized as a renowned tabla player and composer whose career started at age 17 and spans over 30 years. His innovative approach to traditional Indian music, combined with his collaborations with some of the world's most celebrated artists and ensembles, has earned him global recognition. Das has since performed in over 50 countries and collaborated with iconic musicians like Yo-Yo Ma and the Silk Road Ensemble.
Meanwhile, Qais Essar is a contemporary Afghan composer and instrumentalist known for his mastery of the rubab, a traditional Afghan stringed instrument. Essar has composed music for the Oscar-nominated films, "Three Songs for Benazir" (2021) and "The Breadwinner" (2017), the latter earning him a Canadian Screen Award for "Best Original Song."
Accompanying the group was Suhail Yusuf Khan, an eighth-generation sarangi player from New Delhi, India, who carries forward the legacy of his instrumental prowess from his grandfather, the legendary Ustad Sabri Khan, and his uncle, Ustad Kamal Sabri. Khan began his musical training at seven, which later fueled his academic passion, leading him to complete a Ph.D. in Ethnomusicology.
Rounding out the group was Jay Gandhi, bansuri (flute) who received extensive training under the renowned Pt. Hariprasad Chaurasia. As a founding member of the Brooklyn Raga Massive, Jay Gandhi has consistently pushed the boundaries of traditional Indian music, incorporating various influences into his style.
The Performance
As the final notes resonated throughout the hall, the audience was left in awe of the powerful connection between Indian and Afghan musical traditions. The "Delhi to Kabul" performance was more than just a concert—it was a vivid illustration of the unifying power of music. By blending the soulful melodies of ancient instruments with the rhythmic beats of modern interpretations, the ensemble created an atmosphere where cultural boundaries melted away. Attendees left with a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of these two vibrant cultures and the reminder that, through music, we can find common ground, celebrate diversity, and foster understanding across borders.
