24 March 2025/

MĀRGA UTSAVA: A MEMORABLE TRIBUTE TO DR. V. RAGHAVAN’S LEGACY

On 24th March 2025, Mārga Utsava, presented by Chidakash Kalalay Centre of Art and Divinity, unfolded as a captivating celebration of Dr. V. Raghavan’s remarkable contributions to Indian dance.

Held at the Chidakash Art Space in Kolkata, the evening brought together art lovers for an insightful interactive session. 

Dr. V. Raghavan’s journey began in Tiruvarūr, Tamil Nadu, the cradle of India’s musical brilliance. From Tiruvarūr  to global recognition, Dr. Raghavan’s life was a testament to resilience and brilliance. His devotion to Sanskrit, music, and the performing arts inspired a cultural revival, leaving an indelible mark on Indian aesthetics. A true custodian of heritage, his visionary work continues to resonate, bridging the ancient and modern worlds.

Dr. V. Raghavan was a legendary scholar who brought new life to ancient Indian traditions. 

Dr. V. Raghavan, an icon of Indian culture, overcome early challenges to become a beacon of Sanskrit scholarship. His dedication to Sanskrit blossomed under Pandit Sengalipuram Appaswamy Shastrigal at Board High School, Tiruvarur and later at Presidency College, Madras, where his academic brilliance flourished. As a celebrated professor at the University of Madras, he bridged ancient wisdom and modern thought, leaving a global legacy. His work in arts, music and manuscript preservation revitalized Indian traditions, earning him the Padma Bhushan and inspiring generations to honor their heritage. He was a versatile genius whose contributions spanned Sanskrit literature, musicology, dance and drama. As the Secretary of the Madras Music Academy, he enriched Carnatic music and collaborated on timeless compositions. His efforts in reviving classical dance and Sanskrit drama ignited a resurgence of India’s performing arts.

Esteemed speakers including Nandini Ramani, Mysore B. Nagaraj, Dr. Mahua Mukhopadhyay, Piyal Bhattacharya, Arpita Venkatesh, Umamaheshwara, Laxminarayan Jena, Jalsa Chandra and others  shared their wisdom, with the discussion skillfully moderated by Deep Ghosh and Rudrarup Mukhopadhyay. 

The evening concluded on a high note with a mesmerizing Kathak recital by the eminent Guru Ashim Bandhu Bhattacharya.

THE CELEBRATIONS MARKED THE LEGACY OF A VISIONARY  WHO REDEFINED INDIAN DANCE TRADITIONS.