Javed Akhtar at Bansuri Utsav: Flute connects us to the nation’s values and traditions

The Dr Kashinath Ghanekar Auditorium in Thane was awash with music and anticipation as the 17th edition of the Annual Bansuri Utsav played out over January 3 and 4, drawing an overwhelming turnout of classical music lovers. Over two immersive days, the festival brought together stalwarts of Indian classical music, unfolding as a vibrant celebration marked by spellbinding performances and moments of deep cultural resonance.

Javed Akhtar: ‘I once took Pandit Hariprasad Ji’s autograph on a flute’

A highlight of the festival was the felicitation of Padma Bhushan Javed Akhtar, who was conferred the Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia Award in a packed auditorium of admirers.




Accepting the honour, Akhtar reflected on the changing cultural landscape. “The country has made great progress; however, people are gradually forgetting values, literature, music, mythology and language. All these elements bind people together, and today they are needed more than ever,” he said. Struck by the atmosphere of the evening, he added, “Being here today, it feels as though the entire city of Thane is playing the flute. The flute is an instrument that connects us to the nation’s values and traditions.”

Recalling a personal memory, Akhtar spoke fondly of Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia. He shared that he once took Panditji’s autograph on his flute at a programme; a flute he still treasures.

‘This Bansuri Utsav will continue uninterrupted in the years to come’

The festival was graced by Padma Vibhushan Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia, whose performance on the first day left the audience mesmerised. Accompanied by Mahant Vishwambhar Nath Mishra on pakhawaj, the maestro’s recital was a masterclass in depth, serenity and musical devotion. Expressing his gratitude, Pandit Chaurasia said, “Because of everyone’s love and blessings, this Bansuri Utsav will continue uninterrupted in the years to come. Through the flute, we will preserve our culture and continue this journey of carrying it forward to the next generation.”

One hundred flutes, one soul

The second day witnessed one of the most stirring moments of the festival - a Flute Symphony performed by over 100 flautists, aged between eight and 80. Led by renowned bansuri maestro and festival founder Vivek Sonar, the ensemble performance was a heartfelt tribute to Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia and Javed Akhtar, drawing sustained applause from the audience. The visual and sonic spectacle of flautists performing in unison turned the auditorium into a resonant celebration of India’s classical heritage.

Classical excellence across two days

The festival featured an impressive line-up of eminent artists. Day one opened with Krishna Priya, a unique thematic presentation combining kathak dance by Aditi Bhagwat with a flute recital by Vivek Sonar. This was followed by a vocal recital by Meeta Pandit, before Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia brought the evening to a sublime close.

The grand finale on day two was marked by a powerful classical vocal performance by Shubha Mudgal, accompanied on tabla by maestro Aneesh Pradhan.

Celebrating heritage through the bansuri

Founded by Vivek Sonar, Bansuri Utsav continues to promote and popularise Indian classical music, with a special focus on the bansuri and its rich legacy. In just 17 editions, the festival has evolved into a significant cultural platform; one that celebrates tradition while inspiring future generations. This year’s edition did more than present music; it reaffirmed the flute’s timeless ability to bind people, preserve values, and keep India’s classical soul alive.

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