Jalandhar June 2 (Jaswinder Singh Azad)- Apeejay College of Fine Arts, Jalandhar organized a captivating violin recital by internationally acclaimed violin virtuoso Dr. Santosh Kumar Nahar. The programme was hosted by the Department of Performing Arts and witnessed an enthusiastic gathering of students, faculty members, and music connoisseurs. Born into the illustrious Mishra (Bhagalpur Gharana) musical lineage of Bihar, Dr. Santosh Nahar received his initial training under the guidance of his father and guru, the late Prof. Prahlad Prasad Mishra. He further refined his artistry under the mentorship of eminent musicians including Pt. Kedarnath Mishra, Pt. Ramnaresh Mishra, Shri T.M. Patnaik, as well as his elder brothers Pt. Sangeet Nahar and Dr. Sahitya Nahar.
Over the years, his exceptional contribution to Indian classical music has earned him prestigious honours such as Sur Ratna, Vadya Ratna, Surmani, and Sangeet Bhushan. His performances at renowned platforms including the Harivallabh Sangeet Sammelan and Swami Haridas Sangeet Sammelan have earned him widespread acclaim both nationally and internationally.
Dr. Neerja Dhingra expressed her profound gratitude
Welcoming the distinguished artist, Principal Dr. Neerja Dhingra expressed her profound gratitude to the visionary leadership of Apeejay Education. She paid homage to the Founder Chairman of Apeejay Education, Dr. Stya Paul, whose farsighted vision laid the foundation for an educational philosophy that seamlessly integrates academic excellence with cultural enrichment.
She also acknowledged the invaluable guidance and patronage of Mrs. Sushma Paul Berlia, Chairman, Apeejay Education; Chairman, Apeejay Stya & Svran Group; and Chancellor, Apeejay Stya University and Dr. Neha Berlia, Co-owner and Director, Family Business Board, Apeejay Stya & Svran Group, and Lead, Education Vertical, Apeejay Education, and noted that the institution’s continued endeavour to bring eminent artists to campus reflects the unwavering commitment to nurturing creativity, artistic appreciation, and cultural consciousness among young minds.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Dhingra remarked, “In an age dominated by speed and distraction, music remains one of the most profound mediums for cultivating reflection, sensitivity, and inner harmony. Institutions of higher learning must not only impart knowledge but also create opportunities for students to engage with excellence in its purest form. When young learners witness a maestro transforming years of disciplined practice into artistic brilliance, they discover the true meaning of perseverance, dedication, and lifelong learning. It is our privilege to welcome Dr. Santosh Nahar, whose remarkable musical journey serves as an inspiration for every aspiring artist and student.”
Dr. Nahar presented Raag Patdeep in Teentaal with remarkable finesse and depth
The recital unfolded as a memorable musical experience as Dr. Nahar presented Raag Patdeep in Teentaal with remarkable finesse and depth. He subsequently captivated the audience with a diverse repertoire that included the Rajasthani folk melody Kesariya Padharo Mhare Des, the evergreen classics Ek Pyar Ka Nagma Hai and Honthon Se Chhoo Lo Tum, the soulful composition Tu Hi Re, the devotional bhajan Payo Ji Maine Ram Ratan Dhan Payo, and the beloved Punjabi folk song Challa. The enchanting strains of his violin created an atmosphere of serenity and aesthetic delight, leaving the audience spellbound.
The recital was further enriched by the accomplished tabla accompaniment of Shri Rehmat Sidhu and Shri Ratnalal Mishra, whose rhythmic mastery added vibrancy and depth to the performance. The programme was gracefully compered by Dr. Sumit Singh ‘Padam’, whose eloquent stage management contributed significantly to its success.
At the conclusion of the event, Dr. Neerja Dhingra appreciated the dedicated efforts of Dr. Arun Mishra Cultural Coordinator , Dr. Amita Mishra, Dean Youth Festival , and Dr. Micky Verma for their invaluable contribution towards the successful organization of the programme.
She expressed confidence that Apeejay College of Fine Arts, Jalandhar would continue to host such enriching cultural engagements, reaffirming its position as a vibrant centre for artistic excellence and holistic education.