A grand conclusion to a cultural extravaganza

The fifth international convention of SPIC MACAY concluded with an all-night concert. The event was opened by Ramon Magsaysay 2016 awardee and renowned carnatic music exponent, TM Krishna. The event, that went on till four in the morning, saw performances by Hindustani classical vocalist Vidwan Ulhas Kashalkar, Koodiyattam exponent Kapila Venu, Dhrupad maestro Ustad Wasifuddin Dagar and Hindustani classical vocalist Shruti Sadolikar. Krishna, who performed for three hours, told us, "It was a lovely evening. The whole idea of organizing an all-night concert is wonderful. It’s nice to perform art through the night, something that we don't do often these days. Also, it was overwhelming to see so many young people who had come to attend the classical performance all through the night."RK Shriramkumar On being asked about his popularity among youngsters, Krishna said, "I am glad that youngsters enjoy my performance and I am also delighted to see that many youngsters are willing to learn classical music these days." Sanskriti, a class IX student from Ghaziabad, said, "I am learning classical music and TM Krishna is among my favourite singers. I came all the way from Ghaziabad just to see him perform live." Talking about performing in Delhi, Kapila said, "People here are very energetic and watch us keenly. I consider it as one of the prestigious venues to perform in." Suman Doonga, director, Media & Communication, with Dr Kiran Seth, founder (BCCL/ Lokesh Kashyap) On the last day of the convention, participants of the various workshops over the five days put up a presentation of their newly acquired skills. SPIC MACAY chairperson Arun Sahai said, "The 40th international convention was a huge responsibility, but thanks to the efforts of our volunteers and support from all quarters, we have managed it to overwhelming appreciation. This is but a small cheer in our long journey to nurture young minds and make them aware of what a goldmine Indian culture is. This movement has to go on." The convention was sponsored by the Ministry of Tourism as the part of the Incredible India campaign, the Ministry of HRD, Ministry of Culture, Ministry of Youth Affairs, Ministry of Social Justice and the IGNCA.Norwegian ambassador Nils Ragnar Kamsvag with wife Josephine Kamsvag (BCCL/ Lokesh Kashyap) Dr Sandeep Chatterjee, registrar, IIT Delhi and M Jagadesh Kumar, JNU VC --Vibha.Maru@timesgroup.com