Rakesh Chaurasia on ‘Symphony of Bansuri'
'The legacy is a responsibility. Sometimes I feel I'm carrying dumbbells on my chest,' he admitted. 'But classical music gives you a framework, and once you master it through practice, it gives you the confidence to take risks.'
Asked what the bansuri can express that no other instrument can, he said: 'It's completely organic. No factory-made components. Only bamboo and breath. Because when you play it's close to the vocal cords, it's like singing through wood, and it reflects everything you feel. If I'm happy, it shows. If I'm sad, it shows.'
In a world spinning ever faster, Chaurasia believes Indian classical music offers something increasingly rare: peace.
'My Spotify stats show people listen to my music mostly at night. It helps them unplug. Music is built into us. Heartbeat is rhythm, voice is tone, emotions are melody. It's the food for the soul.'
He's excited about playing with the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra, sharing that he's looking forward to 'the lush textures, the expansive sound of a full orchestra and most importantly, the chance to introduce the bansuri to new ears in a new setting. There's something magical when traditions meet without ego, only curiosity and heart.'
The Symphony of Bansuri is more than a concert. It's a conversation between East and West, between history and possibility and, perhaps, between you and something greater than yourself.
Don't miss the chance to hear the flute that has charmed gods and animals wrapped in orchestral splendour in the city that welcomed him more than 30 years ago.
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