A moving tribute to the late Dr. Vinay Waikar was presented through a poetic and musical event titled ‘Shukragujari – Ojhalitle Soneri Kshan’ (Thanksgiving – Golden Moments in Hand). The event, organized by the Waikar family and Saptak Nagpur, took place at the Kavikulguru Kalidas Auditorium in Gayatri Nagar, Nagpur.
The gathering celebrated the themes of gratitude, music, and poetry, drawing on the philosophy of Laya Tattva (the essence of rhythm). The evening began with poet Vaibhav Joshi, who set the tone by describing Rangadevata, the deity of art, as a divine force experienced by artists after the tangible and intangible forms of divinity.
The event featured stirring performances by renowned vocalist Vibhavari Apte-Joshi and talented artist Hrishikesh Ranade. Their repertoire included classical Marathi pieces like ‘Panch Tund Nararund Mal Dhar’ as well as modern classics such as ‘Piya Tose Naina Lage Re’, ‘Chimb Pavsana Ran Jhala Abadani’, and ‘Bhaya Ithale Sampat Nahi’. Their soulful rendition of ‘Jayostute’ by Swatantryaveer Savarkar was particularly impactful, stirring patriotic feelings among the audience.
Vaibhav Joshi also presented some of his well-known works, including Nadi ani Doh, and recited poetry from prominent Nagpur literary figures like Suresh Bhat and Grace. His mix of serious and light-hearted themes resonated deeply with the audience, blending humor, philosophy, and reflection.
The event saw the artists express their gratitude towards influential figures who shaped their careers. They fondly recalled luminaries such as Pandit Hridaynath Mangeshkar, Sudhir Phadke, Mohammed Rafi, and Prabhakar Jog, offering personal insights into their artistic journeys.
The evening was expertly compered by Dr. Amit Waikar, son of Dr. Vinay Waikar, whose warmth and charm tied together the various elements of the program. Dr. Waikar’s daughters, Dr. Manisha Patwardhan and Dr. Pallavi Waikar Sinha, also shared heartfelt anecdotes, further emphasizing their father’s lasting legacy as a renowned ghazal researcher and storyteller.
The event was enhanced by the musical accompaniment of maestros Mahendra Dhole, Govind Gadikar, Arvind Upadhye, Amar Shende, Gaurav Tankasale, Ashok Tokalwar, Vikram Joshi, and Subhash.
Dr. Sudhir Bhave began the evening with a welcoming address, while Dr. Uday Gupte delivered the opening remarks. Among the prominent guests in attendance were actress Bharati Achrekar, Saptak founder Vilas Manekar, and Aparna Waikar. Supported by Persistent Systems, the event, which was held exclusively for Saptak members and invited guests, captivated the audience with its seamless blend of melody, rhythm, and poetry.
