Muddu Mohan | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
Dr. Muddu Mohan is a retired IAS officer and Hindustani classical singer. He is a disciple of Basavaraj Rajguru and late Padma Vibhushan Dr. Gangubai Hangal. He started singing in his childhood while living in Raichur. He hails from here.
His passion is not just limited to music, but he is interested in all forms of performing arts. It is this interest that is the driving force behind him launching Swara Foundation, a public charitable trust aimed at promoting Indian classical dance and music among the youth. “As the tagline suggests, Swara is a platform to promote Indian classical arts,” says Mohan from his residence in Rajajinagar, which will also serve as the temporary office of Swara Foundation. “This endeavour also aims to preserve the arts in their original classical forms.”
With her teacher, mentor and guide Gangubai Hangal
The foundation aims to provide a platform to promote classical music programmes in urban and rural areas. “We are looking at promoting women and differently-abled artistes, organising workshops and events for artistes, and bringing together emerging and experienced artistes by creating a learning bridge.”
Mohan says learning classical arts does not bring instant results. “It requires years of dedication and patience. This is a key aspect we are trying to promote because in today’s world everything is about instant gratification.”
Singer and great singer Bhimsen Joshi
Swara Foundation will be inaugurated by Karnataka Governor Thaawar Chand Gehlot and will be followed by a series of Sangeet Utsav and felicitation, classical dance and music programmes. Jugalbandi Shailesh Bhagwat (the clarinet) and Rafiq Khan (sitar), followed by a Bharatanatyam dance performance by Malavika Nair and Hindustani vocal performance by Mohan and Padmashree Venkatesh Kumar.
“We will also be holding a felicitation function for Bhairatidevi Rajguru, Vinayaka Toravi and Venkatesh Kumar, who will be honoured for their dedication and contribution to the world of classical music,” says Mohan.
The Swara Foundation’s Sangeet Utsav and Samman will be held on June 29 at 4 pm at Ravindra Kalakshetra, JC Road. It is open to all.
