On 9th March 2019, New Acropolis (Main Centre) hosted Chintan Upadhyay, an exponent of Dhrupad at a recital attended by over 60 guests comprising Friends of New Acropolis and members, titled “An Evening of Dhrupad, The Search Within.” Chintanji was accompanied by his wife Apeksha on the Tanpura, and Pratap Awad on the Pakhawaj.
Derived from the Sanskrit word Dhruv (immovable) and Pad (verse), Dhrupad that means “pillar”. Chintanji explained that Dhrupad was not originally meant for entertainment, but was sung at the ancient temples of India as a means to foster introspection and self-purification. Its daily early morning Riyaaz (practice) of Svar Sadhana (modulation meditation) can last 2.5 hours, with the practice of even single notes extending over long durations. It is said that this is meant to help the artist reveal gentle nuances of each note, while becoming free of his own wandering mind. Chintanji also shared an important teaching from his Teacher, who insisted on the need to explore, and transcend one’s comfort zone; to dare to take risks.
Born amidst the rich cultural heritage of Bhavnagar (India), after initial training from his parents, Chintanji went on to complete his Master’s Degree at the Lalit Kala Kendra of Pune University, and received a National Scholarship from the Govt. of India. In 2005 he became a disciple of Dhrupad stalwart, Pandit Uday Bhawalkar.
To view the video click here.
