New Delhi, July 26: Parliamentarians are in for a
melodious treat with shehnai maestro Bismillah Khan agreeing
to perform a musical duet along with his adopted daughter and
classical singer Soma Chakravarthy Ghosh on August 7.
It will be the first performance of the shehnai genius in
Parliament although he has peformed at various fora, including
international levels, Ghosh told reporters here.
She said as Khan, a Bharat Ratna recipient, wanted to
play in parliament, Lok Sabha Speaker Nanohar Joshi took the
intiative and a concert was drawn up. The one-hour programme
will have no fixed format and "music according to the mood
will be played".
A 'Kajri' recital would, however, be included as "Baba"
is very fond of it, Ghosh said.
Defending the ailing maestro's demand for financial help
from the government, she said "Baba has never demanded
anything for himself. Even the petrol pump he wanted was for
his grandson. It was only when he fell ill and got worried
about who would look after his family that he demanded help".
Ghosh said the maestro was happy with the response his
call for help generated.
Bureau Report
