MTDC organises 2-day Banganga Festival

Mumbai, Jan 3: Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC) along with Indian Heritage Society, Mumbai, have organised a two-day 'Banganga Festival' on behalf of the GSB Temple Trust on January 6 and 7.

The first day of the festival will witness the talent of the young and dynamic. Rahul Sharma will be seen playing Santoor with Anuradha Pal, the first Indian lady Tabla Maestro. On the second day, the audience will experience the magic of vocalists Vasundharatai along with her daughter Kalapini Komkali presenting the Sahagaan, Ms Anita Garware, Chairperson, IHS, told reporters.

She said that the Banganga Festival was organised as a tribute to the heritage of the tank at Walkeshwar surrounded by eight temples through rhythm and music. ''The festival will promote the landmark site comprising these temples dating back to the sixth century B C,'' she added.

MTDC was planning to make this place a tourist destination and the restoration work on the temples are already under way, Ms Garware said.

''Playing music here will be very inspiring. The setting reminds one almost of being in Varanasi and I plan to go classical on the appointed evening,'' Mr Sharma said.

''It's amazing to perform in the midst of nature, especially when this place is a reminder of the sanctity of Mumbai as it used to be,'' Ms Pal added.

UNI