Sangeet Academy – Yoganiketan

Sangeet Academy: Nurturing Classical and Sugam Sangeet for All Generations

Introduction:
India’s musical tradition is a timeless treasure, woven through centuries of devotion and creativity. This Academy is a sanctuary where tradition is honored, creativity is nurtured, and music is taught with devotion and love.

What is Sangeet?

Sangeet (संगीत) encompasses geet (song), vadya (instrumental), and nritya (dance). It is discipline, devotion, and learning — a path of spiritual and emotional expression.

1. Classical Music (Shastriya Sangeet)

• Rooted in the Natya Shastra.
• Divided into Hindustani (North) and Carnatic (South).
• Hindustani taught both in vocal and instrumental forms.

2. Sugam Sangeet (Light Music)

• Bhajans, Ghazals, Folk, Patriotic and Film-based songs.
• Blends classical grace with contemporary accessibility.

Vision

To preserve, promote and innovate Indian classical and light music, nurturing artists who are skilled and cultured.

Mission

• Authentic training in Classical and Sugam Sangeet
• Mentorship for all age groups
• Cultural programs, competitions, therapy sessions
• Recording and preservation of compositions

Curriculum and Courses

Classical Vocal:

• Beginner: Swaras, Alankars
• Intermediate: Ragas – Yaman, Bhupali, Desh, Bhairav
• Advanced: Vilambit Khayal, Dhrupad, Tarana

Instruments: Tabla, Harmonium, Sitar, Flute, Tanpura

Sugam Sangeet: Bhajans, Ghazals, Folk, Patriotic & Semi-Classical Songs

Group Singing: Choir and harmony practice

Music Appreciation: Listening to maestros, decoding compositions, attending live concerts.

Unique Features

• Blend of Gurukul tradition and modern methods
• Festival-based performances: Basant Panchami, Navratri, Guru Purnima
• Music for all ages (children to seniors)
• Exam affiliations: Gandharva Mahavidyalaya, Prayag Sangeet Samiti, Bhatkhande Vidyapeeth

Faculty and Mentors

• Experienced artists from renowned gharanas
• Stage performers and certified examiners
• Patient, empathetic, and tradition-respecting mentors

Cultural Activities & Events

• Annual Sangeet Mahotsav: Performances, Guru Vandana, Jugalbandis
• Monthly Baithaks: Small group performances with feedback
• Yuva Talent Hunt: Competitions for young prodigies
• Music & Wellness: Nada Yoga, Sound Healing, Meditation

The Role of Music in Personality Development

• Enhances patience, confidence, and memory
• Encourages emotional expression and focus
• Promotes cultural identity and joy

Certificate Course Schedule

Affiliations

Akhil Bharatiya Gandharva Mahavidyalaya Mandal, Prayag Sangeet Samiti, and Bhatkhande Sangeet Vidyapeeth.

Celebrating a Legend: Padma Shri for Manbhatt Exponent Dharmiklal Pandya

We are immensely proud to announce that Shri Dharmiklal Chunilal Pandya, father of our esteemed music department leads, Mayank Pandya and Praduman Pandya, has been conferred with the prestigious Padma Shri for his unparalleled contribution to the world of music and traditional arts.

At 94 years young, Shri Dharmiklal Pandya stands as the country’s sole surviving practitioner of Manbhatt Akhyan — a centuries-old Gujarati folk narrative tradition.

A Lifetime of Devotion to Akhyan

For over seven decades, Shri Dharmiklal has dedicated his life to the art of storytelling. By striking a copper or earthen vessel with ringed fingers, he breathes life into the epics of the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and the Puranas.

• A Rich Legacy: Inheriting the art from his father Chunilal Govindram, he has performed over 2,500 recitals across the globe.
• Musical Mastery: Blending intricate melodies with rhythmic narration to keep ancient stories vibrant.
• Social Impact: Using Akhyans for awareness on water conservation, literacy and environmental protection.

Our Connection to the Tradition

At Yoganiketan, we feel a deep personal connection to this recognition. The rhythmic discipline and spiritual depth that Shri Dharmiklal Pandya has championed are values reflected daily in our music section managed by his sons.

"This honour belongs to my guru Premanand, my father Chunilal, and to Gujarati art."
— Shri Dharmiklal Pandya

What is Manbhatt Akhyan?

Akhyan is a traditional Gujarati narrative form dating back to the 12th century and flourishing during the Golden Age of poet-saints.

• The Voice: Powerful rhythmic narration
• The Mann: Earthen or copper pot played with rings
• The Soul: Expressive storytelling without accompaniment

We congratulate the entire Pandya family on this monumental achievement and remain committed to supporting the preservation of such living heritage within our community.