IIMA’s Insight to have desi 'tadka'!

Every year, the serene campus of Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad (IIMA) is rocked by nationally and internationally acclaimed rock bands during festivals organised by students.

But not this time. Come Saturday, the traditional and regional flavour from Gujarat, known as charni chhand, is set to captivate listeners at IIMA’s marketing research fair, Insight-2012, starting on Sunday.

Charni chhand are traditional verses recited by the Charan community. Student coordinator at IIMA and secretary of Insight-2012, Rushiraaj Patel, confirmed that the fair will tune into the beats of Gujarati music this year. In fact, he said, legendary Gujarati poets like Zaverchand Meghani’s poems including Chaaran Kanya will be sung in fusion with musical instruments like taar shehnai, guitar, flute and mandolin. 

“Every year, we invite various bands on the eve of the fair. This year we are going to enjoy something different. Chhand Group of Ahmedabad will present different chhands and verses of Gujarati folk literature. These folk songs are being tuned with a rare instrument like the taar shehnai for the first time,” said Patel.

The change is to break the monotony. People will be able to enjoy real Gujarati folk with a certain literary sense. It is fusion and experimental but will create a unique melody for the Insight audience, said Patel.

This year, students from outside will be able to get a guided tour of the prestigious B-school by paying a nominal fee of Rs30. The money will go towards funding of ‘Prayaas’, a social initiative by IIM, Ahmedabad that helps underprivileged children attend school and have a wholesome childhood.