One World One Family
World Cultural Festival

Ustad Amjad Ali Khan is one of India’s most revered classical musicians and an iconic maestro of the sarod. Belonging to the illustrious lineage of the Senia Bangash Gharana, he has been instrumental in bringing the soulful tones of the sarod to global audiences for over five decades. His music resonates with emotional depth, spiritual serenity, and a mastery that blends tradition with improvisational brilliance. A true cultural ambassador, Ustadji has performed at prestigious venues such as Carnegie Hall, Royal Albert Hall, and the Kennedy Center. Apart from his solo work, he has engaged in collaborations with Western classical orchestras, jazz artists, and global musicians, fostering musical dialogue across cultures. His contributions to Indian classical music have been widely recognized with numerous honors, including the Padma Vibhushan. He is also a dedicated mentor and has nurtured many young musicians, including his sons Amaan and Ayaan. Beyond performances, his message of peace, unity, and harmony through music makes him a true global citizen and a torchbearer of India’s musical heritage. To explore the journeys of other distinguished speakers, checkout the full speaker lineup.

Ustad Amjad Ali Khan is one of India’s most revered classical musicians and an iconic maestro of the sarod. Belonging to the illustrious lineage of the Senia Bangash Gharana, he has been instrumental in bringing the soulful tones of the sarod to global audiences for over five decades. His music resonates with emotional depth, spiritual serenity, and a mastery that blends tradition with improvisational brilliance. A true cultural ambassador, Ustadji has performed at prestigious venues such as Carnegie Hall, Royal Albert Hall, and the Kennedy Center. Apart from his solo work, he has engaged in collaborations with Western classical orchestras, jazz artists, and global musicians, fostering musical dialogue across cultures. His contributions to Indian classical music have been widely recognized with numerous honors, including the Padma Vibhushan. He is also a dedicated mentor and has nurtured many young musicians, including his sons Amaan and Ayaan. Beyond performances, his message of peace, unity, and harmony through music makes him a true global citizen and a torchbearer of India’s musical heritage. To explore the journeys of other distinguished speakers, checkout the full speaker lineup.

Dr Padma Subrahmanyam is an eminent Bharatanatyam exponent, researcher, and choreographer who has redefined Indian classical dance through her pioneering work. She is known not just for her stunning performances, but also for her scholarly contributions, especially in reviving the 108 karanas of Natya Shastra, which had been long forgotten. Her dance style beautifully fuses theory and practice, creating a distinctive grammar that speaks to both tradition and modernity. Founder of the Nrithyodaya school in Chennai, she has trained generations of dancers and inspired scholars globally. Her multidisciplinary approach—combining music, sculpture, philosophy, and dance—has earned her numerous awards, including the Padma Bhushan, Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, and several international accolades. Dr Subrahmanyam has also authored key texts on Indian dance and culture, making her a global authority in the field. A cultural visionary, she continues to perform, teach, and lecture, spreading the spiritual and intellectual depth of Indian dance across continents. Curious to meet more such cultural trailblazers? Browse the complete speaker list.

Dr L Subramaniam is a globally acclaimed violin virtuoso, composer, and pioneer in Indian classical and world fusion music. A master of both Carnatic and Western classical traditions, he has redefined the boundaries of violin performance and composition. Trained by his father, Professor V Lakshminarayana, Dr Subramaniam’s journey has taken him from the sabhas of Chennai to the world’s grandest stages, including the Lincoln Center and Royal Albert Hall. His collaborations include a stellar list of international icons such as Yehudi Menuhin, Stephane Grappelli, Herbie Hancock, and the New York Philharmonic. Known for his technical brilliance and emotive improvisation, he has composed for orchestras, film, and ballet, merging ragas with symphonic structures seamlessly. He is the founder of the Lakshminarayana Global Music Festival, which brings together artists from diverse genres. Recognised with Padma Bhushan and several international awards, Dr Subramaniam is not just a performer but a global musical bridge, dedicated to preserving Indian traditions while advancing artistic frontiers. To discover more inspiring voices joining Dr Subramaniam at this event, visit our speaker page.

Smt Aruna Sairam is a celebrated Carnatic vocalist renowned for her powerful voice, soul-stirring renditions, and ability to engage listeners across cultures and generations. With a career spanning over five decades, she has brought the emotional intensity and spiritual essence of Carnatic music to audiences around the world—from Chennai’s Music Academy to the BBC Proms in London. Her music blends tradition with innovation, often weaving elements of folk and Bhakti music into classical frameworks. Known for her signature rendition of Tamil devotional songs and abhangs, she has elevated regional compositions to global stages. A disciple of legendary T. Brinda and Smt Ramnad Krishnan, she has upheld the deep traditions of the Veena Dhanammal bani. Aruna Sairam has received prestigious awards including the Padma Shri and the Sangeetha Kalanidhi, the highest honour in Carnatic music. She is also deeply involved in music education and social initiatives, believing that music can be a tool for healing and transformation. A cultural ambassador, her performances are a bridge between tradition and contemporary relevance. To meet other iconic artists who will share the stage with Aruna Sairam.

Smt Aruna Sairam is a celebrated Carnatic vocalist renowned for her powerful voice, soul-stirring renditions, and ability to engage listeners across cultures and generations. With a career spanning over five decades, she has brought the emotional intensity and spiritual essence of Carnatic music to audiences around the world—from Chennai’s Music Academy to the BBC Proms in London. Her music blends tradition with innovation, often weaving elements of folk and Bhakti music into classical frameworks. Known for her signature rendition of Tamil devotional songs and abhangs, she has elevated regional compositions to global stages. A disciple of legendary T. Brinda and Smt Ramnad Krishnan, she has upheld the deep traditions of the Veena Dhanammal bani. Aruna Sairam has received prestigious awards including the Padma Shri and the Sangeetha Kalanidhi, the highest honour in Carnatic music. She is also deeply involved in music education and social initiatives, believing that music can be a tool for healing and transformation. A cultural ambassador, her performances are a bridge between tradition and contemporary relevance. To meet other iconic artists who will share the stage with Aruna Sairam.

Smt Aruna Sairam is a celebrated Carnatic vocalist renowned for her powerful voice, soul-stirring renditions, and ability to engage listeners across cultures and generations. With a career spanning over five decades, she has brought the emotional intensity and spiritual essence of Carnatic music to audiences around the world—from Chennai’s Music Academy to the BBC Proms in London. Her music blends tradition with innovation, often weaving elements of folk and Bhakti music into classical frameworks. Known for her signature rendition of Tamil devotional songs and abhangs, she has elevated regional compositions to global stages. A disciple of legendary T. Brinda and Smt Ramnad Krishnan, she has upheld the deep traditions of the Veena Dhanammal bani. Aruna Sairam has received prestigious awards including the Padma Shri and the Sangeetha Kalanidhi, the highest honour in Carnatic music. She is also deeply involved in music education and social initiatives, believing that music can be a tool for healing and transformation. A cultural ambassador, her performances are a bridge between tradition and contemporary relevance. To meet other iconic artists who will share the stage with Aruna Sairam.

Smt Aruna Sairam is a celebrated Carnatic vocalist renowned for her powerful voice, soul-stirring renditions, and ability to engage listeners across cultures and generations. With a career spanning over five decades, she has brought the emotional intensity and spiritual essence of Carnatic music to audiences around the world—from Chennai’s Music Academy to the BBC Proms in London. Her music blends tradition with innovation, often weaving elements of folk and Bhakti music into classical frameworks. Known for her signature rendition of Tamil devotional songs and abhangs, she has elevated regional compositions to global stages. A disciple of legendary T. Brinda and Smt Ramnad Krishnan, she has upheld the deep traditions of the Veena Dhanammal bani. Aruna Sairam has received prestigious awards including the Padma Shri and the Sangeetha Kalanidhi, the highest honour in Carnatic music. She is also deeply involved in music education and social initiatives, believing that music can be a tool for healing and transformation. A cultural ambassador, her performances are a bridge between tradition and contemporary relevance. To meet other iconic artists who will share the stage with Aruna Sairam.

Smt Kavita Krishnamurti Subramaniam is an iconic playback singer whose voice has defined the golden era of Indian film music. With a career spanning over four decades, she has sung more than 25,000 songs across multiple Indian languages, earning her the title of one of the most versatile and melodious voices in the industry. Trained in Hindustani classical music, Kavita’s ability to effortlessly navigate complex ragas as well as light melodies has made her a favorite of music directors like R.D. Burman, Laxmikant-Pyarelal, and A.R. Rahman. Her hits range from devotional bhajans to romantic ballads, including timeless classics like Hawa Hawai, Tu Hi Re, and Aaj Main Upar. She has also made a mark internationally through her collaborations with orchestras and artists around the globe. Kavita is the recipient of several accolades including the Padma Shri and multiple Filmfare Awards. Married to violin maestro Dr L Subramaniam, she continues to perform globally and mentor emerging talent, embodying grace, versatility, and enduring musical excellence. Explore the full list of speakers joining her in celebration of music and culture.

Vidwan Kumaresh Rajagopalan is one of India’s most respected violinists and a torchbearer of contemporary Carnatic music. As one half of the celebrated duo Ganesh-Kumaresh, he has carved a unique space for violin in Indian classical music by exploring its expressive and percussive potential. With decades of performance experience, Kumaresh’s style blends technical mastery with emotional depth, making every concert an engaging experience. Trained rigorously in the traditional gurukula system, he has performed on prestigious stages both in India and abroad. His innovative thinking is reflected in his compositions, which often experiment with rhythm and melody without compromising on classical integrity. Beyond performances, Kumaresh is passionate about music education and community outreach. He believes in making classical music accessible and relevant to younger audiences through workshops and digital initiatives. A visionary musician and dedicated teacher, he continues to inspire a new generation to discover the joy and richness of Indian classical music. Looking to discover more artists shaping the future of Indian music?

Dr Jayanthi Kumaresh is among the world’s leading exponents of the Saraswati Veena, known for her exquisite technique, melodic imagination, and spiritual depth. A seventh-generation musician and disciple of her aunt Smt Padmavathy Ananthagopalan, she represents a rare blend of heritage and innovation in Indian classical music. Her concerts are known for their meditative quality and technical brilliance, whether she’s performing solo, in ensembles, or collaborating with global artists. Dr Kumaresh is also a noted researcher and speaker, with a doctorate in Veena performance, and she is passionate about documenting and reviving traditional playing techniques. Founder of the Indian National Orchestra, she aims to bring together diverse classical instruments and create a unified Indian soundscape. She has performed at major venues worldwide and is a recipient of numerous honors. Dr Jayanthi’s mission goes beyond performance—she sees music as a vehicle for inner transformation and cultural dialogue, making her one of the most influential voices in classical music today. Explore the other exceptional speakers who join Dr Jayanthi in this inspiring musical journey.

Smt Revathi Ramachandran is a distinguished Bharatanatyam dancer, teacher, and the current Director of the Kalakshetra Foundation, one of India’s premier institutions for classical arts. Trained in the Vazhuvoor and Kalakshetra styles, she is known for her deeply expressive abhinaya, graceful movement, and scholarly approach to dance. With a career spanning over four decades, she has performed extensively in India and abroad, receiving critical acclaim for her solo recitals and thematic productions. Revathi Ramachandran has also conducted intensive research on temple dance traditions and the integration of dance with ancient texts. As an educator, she has mentored countless students and is widely respected for her efforts to preserve and propagate Bharatanatyam’s rich legacy. Under her leadership, Kalakshetra continues to thrive as a vibrant hub of learning and creativity. She is the recipient of multiple awards for her contributions to dance and culture, including the Kalaimamani and Nritya Choodamani. Her work reflects a harmonious blend of discipline, aesthetics, and devotion. For a glimpse into the work of more cultural visionaries like her, visit the speaker page.

Dr Dimitris Lambrianos is a renowned Greek ethnomusicologist, composer, and performer who has carved a unique path in cross-cultural musicology. With a deep-rooted passion for both Mediterranean and Indian musical traditions, he has dedicated his career to exploring the philosophical and rhythmic connections between world cultures. Educated in Athens and India, Dr Lambrianos specializes in comparative studies of rhythm, folk music, and classical forms. He is especially known for his collaborative projects with Indian classical artists, fusing the improvisational depth of raga with the modal structures of Mediterranean folk. His research spans the study of sacred sound, ritual performance, and the healing properties of music. In addition to academic writing and lecturing at top universities, he actively performs with international ensembles that promote peace and cultural dialogue. His work reflects a belief that music transcends boundaries and serves as a universal language of unity. A true global citizen, Dr Lambrianos is committed to building bridges between East and West through sound, scholarship, and soul. To meet more global thinkers and artists redefining the boundaries of tradition.

Ara Dinkjian (Oud player) is an Armenian-American composer/multi-instrumentalist. He graduated from the Hartt College of Music, earning the country’s first and only special degree in the oud. Ara is considered one of the finest oud players in the world. His groundbreaking group NIGHT ARK recorded four CDs for RCA/BMG and PolyGram/Universal. He has performed in 24 countries throughout the world. His compositions have been recorded by renowned singers in 16 different languages. His composition “Homecoming” (“Dinata, Dinata”) was performed at the closing ceremonies of the 2004 Athens Olympics. In 2013 at the Nevruz Festival in Dikranagerd (Diyarbekir), over 1 million people sang his song “Picture” (“Ağladıkça”) to welcome peace after years of conflict in the region. Ara and his father Onnik, the iconic Armenian folk singer, are the subject of a documentary film titled Garod. The Ara Dinkjian Songbook was just published by Aras Publishing, which was founded by Hrant Dink. Educated in Athens and India, Dr Lambrianos specializes in comparative studies of rhythm, folk music, and classical forms. He is especially known for his collaborative projects with Indian classical artists, fusing the improvisational depth of raga with the modal structures of Mediterranean folk. His research spans the study of sacred sound, ritual performance, and the healing properties of music. In addition to academic writing and lecturing at top universities, he actively performs with international ensembles that promote peace and cultural dialogue. His work reflects a belief that music transcends boundaries and serves as a universal language of unity. A true global citizen, Dr Lambrianos is committed to building bridges between East and West through sound, scholarship, and soul. To meet more global thinkers and artists redefining the boundaries of tradition.

Ara Dinkjian (Oud player) is an Armenian-American composer/multi-instrumentalist. He graduated from the Hartt College of Music, earning the country’s first and only special degree in the oud. Ara is considered one of the finest oud players in the world. His groundbreaking group NIGHT ARK recorded four CDs for RCA/BMG and PolyGram/Universal. He has performed in 24 countries throughout the world. His compositions have been recorded by renowned singers in 16 different languages. His composition “Homecoming” (“Dinata, Dinata”) was performed at the closing ceremonies of the 2004 Athens Olympics. In 2013 at the Nevruz Festival in Dikranagerd (Diyarbekir), over 1 million people sang his song “Picture” (“Ağladıkça”) to welcome peace after years of conflict in the region. Ara and his father Onnik, the iconic Armenian folk singer, are the subject of a documentary film titled Garod. The Ara Dinkjian Songbook was just published by Aras Publishing, which was founded by Hrant Dink. Educated in Athens and India, Dr Lambrianos specializes in comparative studies of rhythm, folk music, and classical forms. He is especially known for his collaborative projects with Indian classical artists, fusing the improvisational depth of raga with the modal structures of Mediterranean folk. His research spans the study of sacred sound, ritual performance, and the healing properties of music. In addition to academic writing and lecturing at top universities, he actively performs with international ensembles that promote peace and cultural dialogue. His work reflects a belief that music transcends boundaries and serves as a universal language of unity. A true global citizen, Dr Lambrianos is committed to building bridges between East and West through sound, scholarship, and soul. To meet more global thinkers and artists redefining the boundaries of tradition.