Music fellowship chapter in Kolkata launches with ceremony, cultural performances

Music took centre stage as a new fellowship chapter centred on shared musical engagement marked its formal launch on April 25, bringing together members of the Rotary network and cultural enthusiasts for an evening of ceremony and performance.

At the heart of the initiative is the International Fellowship of Rotarian Musicians (IFRM), a global platform that connects Rotarians and non-Rotarians through a shared interest in music. Its District 3291 Melody chapter joins this network, positioning itself as a local collective that looks at music not just as a performance, but as a medium for cultural exchange, emotional expression and community engagement.

The event began with a formal welcome by emcees Barnali Banerjee and Tuhin Podder. Charter chairperson Sanghamitra Shah and charter secretary Sanjeeb Gandhi were invited to the stage, following which dignitaries lit the ceremonial lamp to mark the inauguration.

A chorus rendition of Aguner Poroshmoni set the tone for the evening ahead.

The formal session opened with the National Anthem, followed by a minute’s silence in memory of departed musicians. The list also included Asha Bhosle who left for the heavenly abode on April 12, at the age of 92.

The ceremony marked the official recognition of the chapter within the wider fellowship framework.

In her welcome address, Sanghamitra Shah outlined the objectives of the fellowship and traced the process leading to the formation of the melody chapter. Members were introduced in phases, with district office-bearers—including the district governor, district governor elect, district governor nominee and other functionaries—participating in the lapel pin presentation.

Several Rotary leaders addressed the gathering, including IFRM General Secretary (Zones 4 and 7) Rajesh Bhatra, along with district representatives Brotindro Mullick, Purnendu Roychowdhury, Tapas Bhattacharya and Dr Ramendu Homchaudhuri. Their remarks focused on the role of such fellowships within the broader Rotary network.

Charter secretary Sanjeeb Gandhi later conducted the business proceedings, which included a brief outline of planned activities. The segment concluded with guest felicitations and a vote of thanks delivered by Event Chair Nabaneet Maitra.

The evening transitioned into a musical programme hosted by Siddhartha Dasgupta, featuring performances aligned with the theme of collective participation. The event concluded with hi-tea and informal interactions.

Talking about the intent behind the initiative, public image chair Samrat Sengupta said the charter installation reflects the fellowship’s core objective. “While we may speak different languages, music allows Rotarians to connect on a deeper, shared level,” he added.