Rajgir: Nalanda University hosted a captivating classical vocal recital by Padma Bhushan Pandit Sajan Mishra, one of the most revered exponents of the Banaras Gharana, as part of its ongoing cultural series Virasat 2025. The event, organised by the University’s SPIC MACAY Chapter, unfolded on the Front Lawns of the Sushma Swaraj Auditorium in Rajgir on 26 November.
The performance drew students and faculty from over 20 countries, alongside children from local schools participating under Nalanda’s Sahbhāgita Samvāda initiative — reflecting the university’s mission to blend global scholarship with local cultural outreach.
A 300-year tradition, brought alive
Born into a three-century-old musical lineage, Pt Mishra delivered a recital marked by the emotional intensity and devotional poise that define Banaras khyāl singing. His mellifluous vilambit compositions and energetic drut pieces created a meditative ambience, evoking the spiritual gravitas of the Varanasi ghats.
He was accompanied by an accomplished ensemble: Pt Mithilesh Kumar Jha on tabla, Pt Dharmanath Mishra on harmonium, and his son Pt Svaransh Mishra providing vocal support.
A gharana known for devotion and depth
The Banaras Gharana is renowned for its emphasis on melody, spiritual expression and technical finesse. Pt Mishra’s performance embodied these attributes, weaving together passages of contemplative calm and soaring melodic improvisation.
His distinguished career has been recognised with the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (1998) and the Padma Bhushan (2007). Since the passing of his elder brother and musical partner Pt Rajan Mishra in 2021, he has continued to uphold the family’s formidable legacy.
A rare moment for students of a historic campus
Pt Mishra’s appearance held special significance for Nalanda University — an institution synonymous with ancient learning. For students and scholars, the recital offered a living encounter with a cultural tradition as enduring as Nalanda’s own intellectual heritage.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Sachin Chaturvedi reflected on the event’s importance, noting that the University was honoured to have Pt Mishra as the Special Guest for its Foundation Day celebrations.
“Nalanda University is committed to nurturing cultural and artistic creativity alongside academic excellence. Such programmes deepen awareness of India’s civilisational heritage and offer spiritually uplifting experiences,” he said.
Reviving heritage, building global connections
The evening marked another milestone in Nalanda’s mission to connect the world through culture, heritage and knowledge. As Virasat 2025 continues, the university stands at the crossroads of ancient wisdom and contemporary global engagement — a convergence powerfully reflected in Pt Mishra’s timeless music.
