An intense, inspiring two-day Bhajan Workshop was organised in Chembur. Participants did experience connecting with the Divine and were completely tuned in to a mesmerizing, musical and spiritual journey led by Smt. Pramodini Rao, with the support of Sri Vijay Acharya and Kum. Ujjwala Acharya. The bhajans chosen had a variety of moods, though essence was the same. Many were unique compositions of Smt. Susheela Acharya. Her bhajans, Veenapaani on Goddess Saraswathi and Sita Ram glorifying nama mahima were extremely melodious, melting one's heart in devotion. The second floor hall of Saraswathi Vidyalaya resonated with sapta swaras, filling the soul with devotion.
Suno re - a leher geet - was taught, where the lyrics looked simple, but carried profound meaning, highlighting the facts of life. A folk song - Aayi Bhavani - had a different appeal. The song meaning was explained. Voice training and singing practice added to the fine tuning of the musical skills of the participants. During tea and lunch breaks, Pramodiniji interacted with participants to understand their needs and expectations.
On the second day, participants were divided into four groups and were given time for preparation and practice for Group Presentations. Everyone participated with enthusiasm and tried to put up a good show. Smt. Shyamala Acharya and Kum. Tejaswini had put in a lot of efforts in organizing the event and also made sure it was a musical and spiritual experience. There were 28 participants, non-singers, home singers and music teachers. Everyone who attended the workshop said that they had a unique experience, which will remain etched in their memory.
Here are a few feedbacks from participants:
- It was not only teaching us raga, laya, tala and the soulful synchronization of the above, but also teaching us bhava by explaining the meaning and making us resonate with the fullest spiritual experience.
- My sincere gratitude to Pramodiniji for her earnest efforts to impart her profound knowledge of Swara to us and thereby elevating us to Ishwara.
- I practice the sargam as per Pramodini's instructions and I enjoy it immensely. It gradually shifts me towards the meditative mode. Great Guru Pramodini!
- The technique of training the voice taught by Pramodiniji was amazing! I am sure next year my voice will be better than it is now.
