This weekend, the music festival Vasantotsav arrives in Hyderabad with a performance by noted classical vocalist Rahul Deshpande. The two-and-a-half-hour concert, titled Abhangwari, features abhangs, bhajans, and devotional compositions dedicated to Lord Vittala of Pandharpur.

“I’m excited to perform for a discerning audience in Hyderabad, one that truly appreciates classical and devotional music,” says Rahul.

Now in its 10th year, Vasantotsav is held in memory of Rahul’s grandfather, the legendary vocalist Vasantrao Deshpande. The next edition will take place at Sri Shanmukhananda Fine Arts and Sangeetha Sabha in Mumbai on June 29. “It’s been a while since I last performed in Hyderabad, so I decided to bring Abhangwari to the city,” he adds.

Respect for art forms

Effortlessly transitions between different art forms
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

With a foundation in classical music and a deep respect for various art forms, Rahul moves fluidly between genres and mediums. “My grandfather used to say that music has three dimensions — sur (melody), lay (rhythm) and abhinay (expression or acting),” he recalls. “Beyond that, I’ve always been sensitive to different art forms and hold them in high regard.”

Rahul is also working on reviving a musical stage production originally performed by his grandfather. “There’s also an exciting acting project in the pipeline,” he adds, “but I can’t speak much about it just yet.”

Organised by Tatvaa Arts, Abhangwari concert by Rahul Deshpande will be held at Shilpakala Vedika on June 22; tickets: Bookmyshow