Mangaluru, 7 September 2026 – Swami Jitakamananda Ji, president of Ramakrishna Math in Mangaluru, proclaimed that music can usher devotees into divine bliss while inaugurating the Raga Sudha classical music celebration on Sunday.
Addressing a gathering of artists, scholars and local dignitaries, the monk recalled the fondness of Swami Vivekananda for melody, noting that the great sage had studied music and regarded it as a pathway to spiritual elevation.
“Music has accompanied creation from its earliest moments,” he said, adding that harmonious sounds foster both physical calm and mental tranquility. The Swami praised the Kalasadana Institute for selecting the serene precincts of Ramakrishna Math as the venue, describing the setting as ideal for a festival devoted to Hindustani classical traditions.
The ceremony featured a roster of notable guests: former MLC Ganesh Karnik, Executive Director of the Adani Group Kishore Alva, Dakshina Kannada District Deputy Superintendent of Police Anil Kumar Bhoomareddy, cardiologist Dr Mohan Pai, retired MRPL Group General Manager Krishna Hegde, Assistant Forest Conservator Prashanth Pai, Shakti College administrator Ramesh, President of the Dakshina Kannada Working Journalists Association Pushparaj B N, and Immediate Past President of Mangaluru Rotary Central Bhaskara Rai Katta.
Vibha Srinivas Nayak, director of Kalasadana Institute, opened the event with a welcome address, while Panduranga Acharya delivered the vote of thanks. The program was compered by Srinivas Nayak Indaje, who introduced each performer.
Renowned Hindustani vocalist Aditya Modak from Pune headlined the musical segment, accompanied on tabla by Akshay Joshi of Bengaluru, on harmonium by Satish Bhat Heggar from Yellapur, and on tanpura by local musicians Karthik and Praday. The audience responded with enthusiastic applause, underscoring the festival's success in blending devotion and artistry.
Image for illustration purposes only
📰 Source: Vartha Bharati DK