For those like me who didn't have a clue Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia is a world famous indian flute player. He has given performances across the world and played with renowned world famous musicians. He is highly respected within India as a classical musician who has pushed the boundaries of classical music to take it to everyone. He has received various awards for his music but also for his contribution to India.
He was scheduled to visit our neighborhood last Saturday evening, not to play, but for a short talk. There was great excitement and preparation. Vistaites were prepared to pay homage to the maestro. I was asked to take pictures - a photo assignment - if you like, which sort of raised the stress levels!!
The great man arrived to much ceremony. I love the way respect is shown in this country, especially to the elderly as their wisdom is revered. There is a quiet dignity within the enthusiasm and excitement.
The most perfect Rangoli was made at the entrance to the party hall:
The red carpet was laid out and lined by the kids looking beautiful in their traditional indian clothes, clutching petals to shower over the great man on his arrival.
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He was then officially greeted with bindi and garlands.
At the end the vista kids surrounded the maestro for one huge picture.
Then it was autograph time. I don't know if you can see in this picture but under his signature is a flute. Pretty cool!
As he didn't play, I had to end with a picture of him playing at his prime.
He was scheduled to visit our neighborhood last Saturday evening, not to play, but for a short talk. There was great excitement and preparation. Vistaites were prepared to pay homage to the maestro. I was asked to take pictures - a photo assignment - if you like, which sort of raised the stress levels!!
The great man arrived to much ceremony. I love the way respect is shown in this country, especially to the elderly as their wisdom is revered. There is a quiet dignity within the enthusiasm and excitement.
The most perfect Rangoli was made at the entrance to the party hall:
.jpg)
He was then officially greeted with bindi and garlands.
Some of the Vista kids then displayed their well practiced traditional dances and classical songs. All confidently and competently performed.
The interactive talk session was short and mainly in Hindi but the hall of Vista listened intently as one of India's hero's spoke his words of wisdom. I couldn't understand a word but loved the quiet calm of his voice and that sort of inner peace the elderly and wise in the east seem to resonate.
And as to my first photo assignment......every one seemed happy with my pictures and I got some lovely emails and words of thanks!!
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