Sajan Mishra marks 70th birthday at Delhi’s India Habitat Centre

Music and reminiscence filled Silver Oak at India Habitat Centre on Thursday as Hindustani classical vocalist Sajan Mishra marked his 70th birthday with musicians and members of Delhi’s cultural community.

Mishra’s son, composer Swaransh Mishra, and granddaughter, Kathak dancer Shinjini Kulkarni, hosted the evening. Guests reflected on Mishra’s more than six decades in music, including his work in the Benaras gharana and khayal tradition. A tribute to his late elder brother Rajan Mishra, his partner in the Rajan and Sajan Mishra duo, added a quieter moment to the gathering.

The evening later included performances by Malini Awasthi, Jasbir Jassi and Mohammed Sadiq, who sang folk, Bollywood and Punjabi songs. Mishra’s wife, Kavita Mishra, also danced during the programme.

Sarod player Amjad Ali Khan, instrumentalist Vishwa Mohan Bhatt, actor Ashutosh Rana, Bharatanatyam guru Sonal Mansingh, singer Roopkumar Rathod and poet-humourist Surender Sharma were among those present. Mishra thanked his gurus, family, students, late brother and listeners for accompanying his musical journey.