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Musician couple Gopal and Geetha Navale from Bengaluru will host an arts confluence in Varanasi (also known as Kashi) from February 23 to 26. It is called Kala Yatri. Registrations to perform at the event are open to artistes from various fields, including music, dance, fine arts, and photography. Art lovers can also join as
audience members.
Kala Yatri, now in its second year, is an initiative of Guruskool, an arts community run by the couple in Nelamangala.
The confluence will feature performances, workshops, and artiste collaborations at the Ram Chhatpar Shilp Nyas on the banks of the Ganga. “Artistes often work in isolation, and the confluence aims to foster collaboration and mutual appreciation,” says Gopal.
They chose Varanasi for its rich cultural heritage and its appeal to classical music enthusiasts, especially during the five-night-long Dhrupad Mela held during Maha Shivaratri. The confluence will take place during the day, alongside the Dhrupad Mela.
“Last year, around 25 artistes participated in Kala Yatri. This year, we’ve received 20 registrations, with 12 from Bengaluru, and the rest from Uttar Kannada, Kolkata, Varanasi, and even Austria,” shares Geetha.
The couple recently released a world music album, titled ‘Boat on the River’. Geetha, Gopal, and Sanketh, a blues musician from Bengaluru, had composed the songs for it during the inaugural edition of Kala Yatri.
To register, visit kalayatri.com