For nearly a quarter of a century, Aarohi has served as a significant platform for emerging Indian classical musicians, introducing young talent to discerning audiences in Mumbai. The 24th edition of “Aarohi — A Festival of Rising Stars,” conceptualised and curated by Pancham Nishad and presented by GRACE Foundation, will be held on May 20 and 21, 2026, at the Mini Theatre of Ravindra Natya Mandir, Prabhadevi.
Founded in 2002 with the vision of “Catching Them Young,” Aarohi has introduced more than 138 promising musicians over the years, offering them a serious performance platform at a crucial stage in their artistic journeys. The festival continues its tradition of free public access, encouraging wider engagement with Indian classical music.
The opening evening on May 20 will feature vocalist Chaitanya Parab, whose thoughtful musical expression has earned appreciation among young listeners and connoisseurs alike. He will be followed by santoor exponent Divyansh Srivastava, presenting his debut full-length classical santoor recital in Mumbai. A disciple of the legendary Bhajan Sopori, Divyansh represents the rare Sopori Sufiyana Gharana tradition. The evening will conclude with vocalist Aadya Mukherjee, a first-generation professional musician whose artistic journey reflects deep personal commitment to Indian classical music.
The second evening, May 21, brings together another diverse line-up of young performers. Vocalist Swati Tiwari, trained in both the Gwalior and Banaras gharanas, will present a repertoire shaped by two important streams of Hindustani music. Flautist Samyak Parashari will showcase the expressive possibilities of the bansuri through a performance rooted in emotional nuance and melodic depth. The festival will conclude with vocalist Abhed Abhisheki, son of Pandit Shounak Abhisheki and grandson of the iconic Padma Shri Pandit Jitendra Abhisheki, making his first large-scale performance appearance in Mumbai.
The artistes will be accompanied by noted co-artistes Yati Bhagwat, Swapnil Bhise, Rohit Deo, Manoj Solanki, Sudhanshu Gharpure, and Dyaneshwar Sonawane.
Speaking about the festival’s enduring vision, Shashi Vyas, Founder of GRACE Foundation, said, “The vitality of Indian classical music depends on empowering young musicians at the right time. Aarohi was envisioned to fulfil this need — and after more than two decades, its spirit continues to inspire and resonate.”
The participating artistes also expressed their appreciation for the platform. Chaitanya Parab described it as a privilege to perform on a stage that has consistently celebrated India’s musical heritage, while Divyansh Srivastava noted the emotional significance of presenting the aesthetics of the Sopori Sufiyana Gharana before a Mumbai audience. Aadya Mukherjee spoke of Indian classical music being deeply intertwined with her identity, and Swati Tiwari acknowledged the importance of opportunities that allow young artistes to present the essence of classical traditions to informed listeners. Samyak Parashari emphasised the emotional connection fostered through the bansuri, while Abhed Abhisheki shared his excitement and honour at performing in Mumbai on such a prestigious platform for the first time.
The festival will begin at 6:00 PM on both days at the P.L. Deshpande Mini Theatre, 3rd Floor, Ravindra Natya Mandir, Prabhadevi. Entry to the festival is free, with a limited number of seats reserved.
GRACE Foundation, formally known as the Gunijaan Research Art Culture & Education Foundation, is a Section 8 non-profit organisation committed to the preservation and promotion of India’s performing arts heritage through collaborative and inclusive artistic initiatives.
