Ahmedabad loses a legend | Sitar maestro and co-founder of Saptak, Manjuben Mehta, passes away

Ahmedabad bids farewell to a cultural icon as Vidushi Manjuben Mehta, the esteemed sitarist and co-founder of the city's Saptak School of Music, passed away at her Ahmedabad residence on Tuesday, the 20th of August 2024, at the age of 79. Her passing marks the end of an era in Indian classical music, leaving behind a rich legacy that will resonate for generations.

Manju Mehta, a masterful sitarist, played a pivotal role in bringing Hindustani music to the forefront in Gujarat through the beloved annual Saptak festival and the Saptak School of Music in Ahmedabad.

Born in Jaipur in 1945 to Manohar and Chandrakala Bhatt, Manjuben was immersed in music from a young age, growing up in a family where music was not just a passion but a way of life. Both her parents were accomplished musicians, and her brothers, Shashi Mohan Bhatt and Vishwa Mohan Bhatt, have been recognized as Pandits in the field. This rich musical lineage profoundly influenced her journey as an artist.

Manjuben Mehta was a top-grade classical instrumentalist, the highest rating in All India Radio’s classification, a testament to her virtuosity on the sitar. Her playing was known for its emotional depth, technical precision, and an ability to convey the intricate nuances of Indian classical music.

In 1980, she co-founded Saptak School of Music in Ahmedabad with her husband, Nandan Mehta, a prominent tabla maestro. The school quickly became a beacon for classical music enthusiasts, nurturing countless students and preserving the rich heritage of Indian classical music.

The Saptak Festival of Music, the country's largest, is a 13-day event held every January in Ahmedabad. Founded by the Mehtas, it attracts renowned musicians from around the world. The festival is celebrated for its dedication to the pure form of Indian classical music, and Manjuben's contributions were pivotal in its success.

Her contributions to the arts were widely recognized, earning her several prestigious awards. She was honoured with the Sangeet Natak Akademi of Gujarat Award, acknowledging her dedication to the arts. In 2018, she was bestowed with the Tansen Samman, one of the highest accolades for classical musicians in India. She also received the Dhirubhai Thakar Savyasachi Saraswat Award in 2016, recognizing her exceptional talent and influence in the world of music.

Vidushi Manjuben Mehta's legacy extends far beyond her numerous accolades. As a revered guru, she passionately imparted her knowledge and enthusiasm to the next generation of musicians, shaping their growth both as artists and individuals.

Her influence will endure through the echoes of her performances and the ongoing impact of Saptak School of Music, ensuring that her contributions to Indian classical music will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come.