Mangalore: A memorable night it was on Sunday, January 15th at the Mangala Staduim on a highly decorated sprawling stage, when India’s renowned music creators, city’s own Saxophone icon Kadri Gopalnath, Hindustani flutist Praveen Godkhindi, drummer Sivamani form Chennai, and other accompanying artists took the large audience to the world of stunning fusion music on instruments.

The Monday programme on January 16 is the last one due now.

Gopalnath opened with Hamsa dhwani(Swan’s voice) raga(tune) with ‘Vatapi Ganapathim Bhajehum’ as the coveted enduring song of generations, which was taken up by Godkhindi on flute and Sivamani on drums.

Dr. Narasimhalu Vadavatti, chairman of Sanjeet Nataka Akademi in Bangalore, played the tune on Clarionet, and Pandit Rajendra Nakod was deft on Tabla. Santhosh Malekar played on the keyboard(harmonium). Vidwans Rajashekahar and Hari kumar played on clarionet, following the main artistes.

The classical (Hindustani/ Carnatic) and Western music were in fusion. The youthful listeners had danced on Saturday’s light music, but on Sunday they absorbed it in syne and rhythm of the many instruments on show.

There were thunderous rounds of applause from the learned and appreciative, and contented audience. Food stalls were kept busy during the day, along with materials exhibited alongside.