Discovering a Bharat Ratna: The Life and Legacy of Pt. Bhimsen Joshi

Presentation & Live Demonstration by Pt. Dr. Nagaraj Rao Havaldar

Unveiling the human struggle and artistic genius of a musical legend.
“Swadeshe Pujyate Raaja Vidwaan Sarvatra Pujyate” — A king is honored in his own land, but a scholar is honored everywhere.

While the world celebrates the accolades of Bharat Ratna Pt. Bhimsen Joshi, his true legacy lies in the grueling journey from a determined young boy to a master of the intangible Swaras. This event moves beyond the “finished product” of a concert to explore the human being behind the artist—his struggles, his discipline, and the soul-stirring evolution of his music.

Take part in an immersive experience featuring rare audio-visual archival clips and a live demonstration of the nuances of his legendary Gayaki.

About the Speaker: Pt. Dr. Nagaraj Rao Havaldar

Pt. Dr. Nagaraj Rao Havaldar is a leading Hindustani vocalist and a Grade ‘A’ artiste of AIR and Doordarshan. A disciple of Pt. Madhava Gudi (Bhimsenji’s prime disciple), he holds a Doctorate in Music and is the author of the acclaimed biography, “Bharata Ratna Pt. Bhimsen Joshi – The Voice of the People.” A recipient of the Karnataka Kalashree, Dr. Havaldar has performed globally, from the Sawai Gandharva Mahotsav to the London International Arts Festival.

Date and Time:
English and Kannada

Date and Time:
16th May 2026, 06:00 PM – 08:00 PM

Venue:
IME Performance Theatre ,
IME Museum,
JP Nagar 7th phase,
Bengaluru – 560078

Entry:
Free