The Assam Royal Global University (RGU) hosted the SPIC MACAY Virasat Anubhav (SMVA) Series 2026, a four-day cultural immersion programme from March 10 to 13, aimed at promoting the rich traditions of Indian classical arts among young learners. A total of 93 RGU students participated in technical workshops during the series, which culminated in a historic performance by Padma Bhushan Pandit Vishwa Mohan Bhatt, a Grammy Award-winning musician known for the Mohan Veena, who provided a magnificent finale with his extraordinary slide guitar performance. Cultural evenings featured a mime performance by Shri Moinul Haque, a Kathak recital by Pandit Rajendra Gangani, and a Hindustani classical vocal concert by Vidushi Sunanda Sharma.
Dr. Banani D Hazarika, an organising member and Associate Dean of Student Affairs at RGU, noted that the event offered students a unique chance to learn from eminent maestros through intensive workshops and performances. The “Anubhav” segment consisted of three parallel workshops where students engaged actively in classical art forms rather than merely observing. A Mime Workshop led by Shri Moinul Haque emphasized the expressive power of silent performance, using a thematic piece titled “Man Dies When Trees Disappear” to focus on environmental conservation. Vidushi Sunanda Sharma conducted an Indian Classical Vocal Workshop discussing the foundational aspects of the Banaras Gharana, while Pandit Rajendra Gangani instructed a Kathak Dance Workshop covering fundamental footwork (tatkar) and the lyrical elements intrinsic to the dance tradition.
Maushumi Baruah George, chairperson of the Guwahati Chapter of SPIC MACAY, expressed that the SPIC MACAY Virasat Anubhav Series 2026 successfully bridged the gap between modern education and India’s artistic traditions, providing students with valuable exposure to classical performing arts, thereby enriching them artistically and inspiring an appreciation for India’s cultural legacy.
