Ravi Shankar returns to Pune after 19 years

PUNE: An ambassador of Indian music abroad, Pandit Ravi Shankar will perform in the city after a gap of 19 years on December 15.

“We have better talent in Indian classical music today, more than ever before. But the art is not meant for the masses – that is why it is not called ‘massical’ music,” Ravi Shankar told reporters here.

He sought to deny the perception that Indian classical music was dying.

“In fact, we have more and more people taking interest. The Indian government has done more than any other government in the world for the art. In Western countries, private sector support has rejuvenated the classical arts,” Ravi Shankar said, adding, “With the number of rich Indians increasing, I am sure the art will get further patronage.”

About his special bond with Pune, Ravi Shankar said, “After I started my career in 1944 and played in different music circles in Mumbai, I performed here in 1945 at BJ Medical College. Since then, I have been here on several occasions.”

Asked why he did not perform at the Savai Gandharva which concluded here on December 9, he said, “It just did not happen.”

Interestingly, the sitar maestro will be accompanied by daughter Anoushka for the first time in the city.