A Fort Transformed
Purana Qila, a centuries-old fortress in Delhi, recently shed its historical armor to embrace a softer, more intimate role as the host for a unique musical
event. On March 14th, this ancient citadel, which has witnessed epochs of change and conflict since the 1600s, was transformed into a nurturing space for an innovative concert format making its debut in India. This particular event, 'Candlelight Open Air: Mehfil-e-Sufi,' organized by Live Your City, featured an Indian classical ensemble. The setup involved hundreds of flickering candles casting a warm, ambient glow that mingled with instrumental Sufi melodies, creating a deeply meditative atmosphere. This blend of historical grandeur and soft lighting aimed to provide a profound sensory experience, moving beyond the typical high-energy, brightly lit concerts to foster a more personal connection between the audience and the performance.
Instrumental Sufi Soirée
The Mehfil-e-Sufi performance at Purana Qila featured a talented trio: Megha Rawoot on the sitar, Makrand Sanon on percussion, and Ashwin Krishnan on keyboard. They presented instrumental interpretations of beloved Sufi classics, including 'Mast Kalandar,' 'Yeh Jo Halka Halka Suroor Hai,' 'Khwaja Mere Khwaja,' 'Kun Faya Kun,' and 'Chaap Tilak Sanson Ki Mala.' These pieces, originally popularized by artists like AR Rahman and Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, were reenvisioned through the intricate melodies of the sitar, the rhythmic pulse of percussion, and the harmonic textures of the keyboard. The effect was breathtaking, amplified by the quiet darkness and the imposing silhouette of the fort as a backdrop. The electric candles lining the entryway, stretching across the lawns, and encircling the stage created a magical ambiance, turning the performance into something larger than life against the backdrop of history.
Redefining Live Music
Candlelight concerts, a format that has been popular globally for some time, have recently made their entrance into India, aiming to fill a void in the current live music scene. Pranjal Begwani, Candlelight Team Lead for India & Thailand, explained that the concept emerged from a desire to offer audiences a distinct way to experience music, moving away from the prevalent emphasis on loud spectacles and grand scale. In contrast to conventional concerts, which can be overwhelming with bright lights and large crowds, this format prioritizes intimacy and experience. The close proximity seating fostered a sense of connection, allowing the audience to actively participate by singing along and clapping, truly becoming part of the sensory journey. This approach trades scale for immersion, making the music and the historical setting the central focus, thereby creating a novel way to engage with live performances.
Artistry in Intimacy
The artists involved in the Candlelight Mehfil-e-Sufi shared insights into how the tranquil, candlelit setting influences their performance. Megha Rawoot, the sitarist, described the experience as akin to 'stepping into a different time,' noting that without vocals, the instrumental music had to convey the entire emotional narrative. She felt the music became more immersive and meditative, resembling a conversation with the historical space itself, with the audience and performers seemingly 'breathing together.' For percussionist Makrand Sanon, the key was 'listening more than playing,' adopting a softer, more textured approach to rhythm that weaves around the melody rather than dominating it. He described his role as creating a gentle, immersive pulse, an undercurrent that deepens the mood. Keyboardist Ashwin Krishnan explained that instrumental renditions treat original compositions as a starting point, using harmony and subtle variations to reinterpret the emotional arc, akin to telling a story in a different, yet understandable, language.
Upcoming Musical Journeys
For those captivated by this unique concert experience, several upcoming shows are scheduled, offering diverse musical tributes. In March, there are opportunities to experience 'Candlelight: Tribute to KK' and 'Candlelight: Tribute to A.R. Rahman,' both held at Roseate House on March 29th, featuring pianist Krishna. Moving into April, 'Candlelight: Tribute to Arijit Singh' and 'A Night of Ghazals' will take place at Le Méridien New Delhi on April 11th. The latter features a trio with piano, tabla, and vocals, led by pianist Krishna. These upcoming events continue the tradition of bringing live music to evocative settings, offering a chance to reconnect with familiar melodies in a fresh, intimate, and candlelit ambiance, promising memorable musical journeys for attendees.
