“Smritiyan” Concert at Shilpgram Tomorrow to Mark the Birth Centenary of Pandit Chatur Lal

Udaipur – To commemorate the birth centenary of the legendary tabla maestro Pandit Chatur Lal, fondly known as the “Wizard of Rhythm,” the Pandit Chatur Lal Memorial Society in association with Hindustan Zinc Limited will present the grand “Smritiyan” concert on March 6 at 6:30 PM at Shilpgram.

This year marks 100 glorious years of Pandit Chatur Lal’s musical legacy. He was among the pioneering Indian percussionists who established Indian rhythm on the global stage.

In the global history of Indian classical music, 1955 remains a landmark year when Ali Akbar Khan and Pandit Chatur Lal undertook a historic tour of Western countries. They were introduced on international platforms by the world-renowned violinist Yehudi Menuhin. During this tour, they performed at the Museum of Modern Art in New York—marking the first time Indian classical music reached that prestigious venue. This milestone significantly advanced the global recognition of Indian music. He was among the earliest Indian tabla players to perform internationally, and his historic jugalbandis with world-famous artists continue to inspire music lovers.

Contemporary reviews praised his artistry as extraordinary. A February 2, 1958 review in Hindustan Times Weekly described Ravi Shankar, Ali Akbar Khan, and Chatur Lal as undisputed masters and unparalleled representatives of their instruments. Similarly, on April 27, 1958, The New York Times wrote that Chatur Lal’s artistry was so grand that when he accompanied Ravi Shankar, it felt as though an entire symphony orchestra had joined him.

These reviews affirm that Pandit Chatur Lal was not merely an accompanist but a towering musical personality in his own right. In 1957, he was among the first Indian percussionists associated with an Oscar nomination in the music category alongside Pandit Ravi Shankar. His tabla performances received widespread international acclaim, and he was honored with numerous prestigious awards during his lifetime.

By conceptualizing “Taal Vadya Kacheri,” he brought the complexities of rhythm to global audiences. His contribution to Indian classical music is etched in golden letters, and his style continues to inspire generations.

The 26th edition of the “Smritiyan” concert at Shilpgram this year is specially dedicated to his memory and legacy. Renowned artists from India and abroad will share the stage, offering a musical tribute.

The evening will feature Padma Bhushan awardee and celebrated Mohan Veena exponent Vishwa Mohan Bhatt, string maestro Salil Bhatt, and Pranshu Chatur Lal. International artist Moa Danielsson will present a special santoor recital, symbolizing music’s global resonance. Additionally, the acclaimed Niazi Nizami Brothers will perform a soulful Sufi qawwali, promising to immerse the audience in spiritual fervor. Winners of the Zinc Pratibha Talent Hunt will also get an opportunity to perform on this grand stage.

The event is supported by RSMML and Rajasthan Tourism. Pride Hotel is the hospitality partner, while Sandy’s Travel Tales is the digital partner.

This musical evening is not merely a concert, but a celebration of a legacy—one that immortalized Indian rhythm on the world stage. Music lovers of Udaipur are cordially invited to be part of this historic occasion.