UTSAAH 2026: A grand celebration of Indian Classical Music, mentorship & emerging talent returns to Mumbai

With performances by Padma Shri Hariharan and Pt. Rakesh Chaurasia, UTSAAH 2026 celebrates mentorship, legacy and musical brilliance.

Mumbai, 15^th January 2026: The spirit of Indian classical music will take centre stage as UTSAAH 2026, the annual flagship concert by Purbayan Arts and Artists Music Foundation (PAAMF), returns to Mumbai for two unforgettable evenings on 23^rd and 24^th January 2026 at the Nehru Centre Auditorium, Worli.

Curated by President of India awardee and sitar maestro Purbayan Chatterjee, along with renowned vocalist Gayatri Asokan, UTSAAH, meaning enthusiasm and passion, is a vibrant celebration where tradition meets innovation. The festival brings together legendary maestros, acclaimed performers and some of the most promising young musicians trained under PAAMF, creating a powerful platform for learning, performance and artistic collaboration.

Founded with the vision of empowering young Indian musicians, PAAMF is dedicated to nurturing talent through education, mentorship and performance opportunities, while also creating exposure to both Indian and international music industries. UTSAAH embodies this mission by offering students the rare opportunity to share the stage with stalwarts of Indian classical and contemporary music.

“UTSAAH is more than performances, it is a celebration of learning, mentorship and the evolving journey of Indian classical music”, said Sitar Virtuoso Purbayan Chatterjee. “Through this platform, we bring together young musicians and legendary artists on one stage, allowing tradition to grow, adapt and inspire newer generations. UTSAAH 2026 reflects our continued commitment to nurturing talent while staying rooted in the soul of Indian music”.

Two Evenings of Soulful Music

Day 1: January 23, 2026 (7:00 PM – 10:00 PM):

The first evening will commence with a ceremonial lamp lighting, followed by performances by PAAMF students. Featuring sitar maestro Purbayan Chatterjee across multiple collaborative sets—performing with Abhishek Mishra & Shivang Mishra (Mishra Brothers Collective), Pratham Chatterjee, and the Gen Next Collective, showcasing mentorship-driven collaborations.

The night will culminate with Padma Shri Hariharan, performing with select PAAMF students (to be finalised prior to the concert), celebrating the coming together of experience and emerging talent.

Day 2: January 24, 2026 (7:30 PM – 10:00 PM):

The second evening will open with performances by PAAMF students, followed by ‘Dhun Ki Katha’, a special presentation by Gayatri Asokan and Ruchira Kedar.

The evening will further feature an immersive Indian classical performance by Pt. Rakesh Chaurasia on flute, accompanied by Ojas Adhiya on tabla, culminating in a special jugalbandi with Purbayan Chatterjee, promising moments of musical brilliance.

UTSAAH 2026 is expected to draw Indian classical music connoisseurs, aspiring students, cultural patrons and dignitaries from across the Indian music industry. The festival stands as a testament to PAAMF’s commitment to preserving India’s rich musical heritage while encouraging innovation, collaboration and global dialogue.

Over the years, UTSAAH has evolved into a much-anticipated cultural gathering, celebrated for its soulful performances, meaningful mentorship and community-driven ethos, where learning transforms into celebration and music becomes a shared journey.

Venue: Nehru Centre Auditorium, Worli, Mumbai

Dates: 23^rd & 24^th January 2026