Strings of Serenity

Apeejay College of Fine Arts (ACFA), Jalandhar, transformed into a haven of melody and artistic brilliance as the institution hosted an enchanting violin recital by internationally acclaimed virtuoso Dr. Santosh Kumar Nahar. Organised by the Department of Performing Arts, the event drew an enthusiastic audience of students, faculty members, artists, and lovers of Indian classical music, creating an atmosphere steeped in culture and musical appreciation.

Born into the renowned Mishra (Bhagalpur Gharana) musical lineage of Bihar, Dr. Santosh Nahar’s musical journey reflects years of dedication and disciplined practice. He received his early training under the guidance of his father and guru, the late Prof. Prahlad Prasad Mishra, before honing his artistry under eminent maestros including Pt. Kedarnath Mishra, Pt. Ramnaresh Mishra, Shri T.M. Patnaik, and his elder brothers Pt. Sangeet Nahar and Dr. Sahitya Nahar. His exceptional contribution to Indian classical music has earned him prestigious honours such as Sur Ratna, Vadya Ratna, Surmani, and Sangeet Bhushan. Having performed at celebrated platforms like the Harivallabh Sangeet Sammelan and Swami Haridas Sangeet Sammelan, Dr. Nahar has earned admiration from audiences both in India and abroad.

Welcoming the distinguished artist, Principal Dr. Neerja Dhingra expressed gratitude towards the visionary leadership of Apeejay Education for consistently fostering cultural and artistic excellence. She paid tribute to the late Founder Chairman Dr. Stya Paul whose vision integrated academic learning with cultural enrichment. She also acknowledged the continued guidance and support of  Mrs Sushma Paul Berlia, Chairperson, Apeejay Education, Apeejay Stya & Svran Group and Chancellor of Apeejay Stya University  , and Dr. Neha Berlia,  Co-Promoter and Member of the Senior Management Board Apeejay Stya and Svrán Group and Pro-Chancellor Apeejay Stya University  , for encouraging institutions to create platforms that nurture creativity and artistic sensitivity among students.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Dhingra remarked, “In an age dominated by speed and distraction, music remains one of the most profound mediums for cultivating reflection, sensitivity, and inner harmony. When students witness a maestro transforming years of disciplined practice into artistic brilliance, they understand the true meaning of perseverance and lifelong learning.”

The recital unfolded into an unforgettable musical experience as Dr. Nahar presented Raag Patdeep in Teentaal with extraordinary finesse and emotional depth. The audience remained captivated as he moved seamlessly through a diverse repertoire, including the Rajasthani folk melody Kesariya Padharo Mhare Des, evergreen classics such as Ek Pyar Ka Nagma Hai and Honthon Se Chhoo Lo Tum, the soulful Tu Hi Re, the devotional bhajan Payo Ji Maine Ram Ratan Dhan Payo, and the beloved Punjabi folk number Challa.

The performance was elevated further by the accomplished tabla accompaniment of Shri Rehmat Sidhu and Shri Ratnalal Mishra, whose rhythmic mastery added richness and vibrancy to the recital. The programme was elegantly compered by Dr. Sumit Singh ‘Padam’, ensuring seamless coordination throughout the event.

At the conclusion, Dr. Dhingra appreciated the dedicated efforts of Dr. Arun Mishra (Cultural Coordinator), Dr. Amita Mishra (Dean, Youth Festival), and Dr. Micky Verma for successfully organising the event. She reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to hosting such enriching cultural programmes, strengthening ACFA’s identity as a vibrant centre for artistic excellence and holistic education.