The Assam Royal Global University (RGU) hosted the SPIC MACAY Virasat Anubhav (SMVA) Series 2026, a four-day cultural immersion programme held from March 10 to 13, designed to encourage young learners to engage with the rich traditions of Indian classical arts. A total of 93 students from RGU participated in the various technical workshops offered throughout the series. The event culminated in a remarkable performance by Padma Bhushan Pandit Vishwa Mohan Bhatt, a Grammy Award-winning musician, who showcased his skills on the Mohan Veena, bringing an impressive conclusion to the celebration of India’s cultural legacy.
The series featured several cultural evenings that kicked off with a dynamic mime performance by Shri Moinul Haque, followed by the captivating Kathak recital of Pandit Rajendra Gangani and the serene Hindustani classical vocal concert by Vidushi Sunanda Sharma. Dr. Banani D Hazarika, an organising member of SMVA and Associate Dean of Student Affairs at RGU, noted that the event offered students a rare chance to learn directly from esteemed maestros through engaging workshops and inspiring performances.
As part of the “Anubhav” (Experience) segment, three concurrent workshops allowed students to transition from passive observers to active participants in classical art forms. The Mime Workshop, led by Shri Moinul Haque, focused on the art of silent performance and included practical sessions where students created a thematic group piece titled “Man Dies When Trees Disappear,” addressing environmental conservation through mime. The Indian Classical Vocal Workshop by Vidushi Sunanda Sharma introduced students to key principles of the Banaras Gharana. Additionally, the Kathak Dance Workshop, conducted by Pandit Rajendra Gangani, guided participants through the nuanced rhythms of Kathak, covering foundational footwork (tatkar) and the expressive elements that characterize this classical dance form.
According to Maushumi Baruah George, chairperson of the Guwahati Chapter of SPIC MACAY, the SPIC MACAY Virasat Anubhav Series 2026 at RGU successfully bridged the gap between contemporary education and India’s age-old artistic traditions. The programme not only broadened the artistic horizons of participants but also motivated them to cherish and safeguard India’s cultural heritage.