SaMaPa Sangeet Sammelan: A celebration of Indian classical music and dance

Delhi is set to resonate with the sounds of Indian classical music as the Sopori Academy of Music and Performing Arts (SaMaPa) presents the 21st edition of its annual SaMaPa Sangeet Sammelan from November 21 to 23 at Kamani Auditorium, Copernicus Marg. The performances will begin at 5:45 PM, with entry open to all on a first-come, first-served basis.

Established over two decades ago, SaMaPa Sangeet Sammelan is regarded as one of the Capital’s premier classical music festivals. Conceived by the late Padmashri Pandit Bhajan Sopori — celebrated as the “Saint of Santoor” and “King of Strings” — the festival continues to uphold his vision of creating an inclusive and immersive platform that brings diverse musical traditions to wider audiences.

This year’s edition features an eclectic line-up of renowned artistes. The opening evening on November 21 will begin with a vocal recital by Pt Ritesh Mishra and Pt Rajnish Mishra, accompanied by Pt Durjay Bhaumik on tabla and Sumit Mishra on harmonium. This will be followed by a flute recital by Pt Ronu Majumdar, accompanied by Pt Ramkumar Mishra (tabla).

On November 22, the programme includes a tabla solo by Ustad Akram Khan, with accompaniment by Ustad Murad Ali (sarangi) and Lalit Sisodia (harmonium). The evening will conclude with a dhrupad recital by Pt. Umakant Gundecha and Anant Gundecha, joined by Pt Vishwambhar Nath Mishra on pakhawaj.

The festival will close on November 23 with a Sufi and Bhakti sangeet presentation by vocalist Ragini Rainu, followed by a santoor recital by Pt Abhay Rustum Sopori, accompanied by Pt Sanju Sahai on tabla.

Adding a visual dimension to the event, a painting and photography exhibition featuring works by artists from Jammu & Kashmir and Delhi will run alongside the performances.

Speaking ahead of the festival, curator and santoor exponent Pt Abhay Rustum Sopori said, “The SaMaPa Sangeet Sammelan is not merely an Indian classical music festival but a tradition that breathes through generations. The 21st edition is a milestone, and it fills me with immense pride to see it evolve into one of Delhi’s most cherished cultural festivals. This yearly celebration is a tribute to the vision and legacy of my father, Pandit Bhajan Sopori, who devoted his life to the promotion and preservation of traditional Indian music.”

Also Read: Strings of eternity: Abhay Rustum Sopori’s journey of music, mysticism, and legacy

He added that SaMaPa functions as a cultural movement aimed at deepening public appreciation for folk and classical arts while nurturing young talent and expanding their opportunities.

As winter descends on the city, the SaMaPa Sangeet Sammelan promises an immersive musical experience, celebrating the depth, discipline, and devotional roots of India’s classical heritage.

When: November  21–23; 5.45 PM onwards

Where: Kamani Auditorium, Copernicus Marg, New Delhi