New Delhi, July 26: Parliamentarians are in for a melodious treat with shehnai maestro Bismillah Khan agreeing to perform a musical duet along with his adopted daughter and classical singer Soma Chakravarthy Ghosh on August 7. It will be the first performance of the shehnai genius in Parliament although he has peformed at various fora, including international levels, Ghosh told reporters here. She said as Khan, a Bharat Ratna recipient, wanted to play in parliament, Lok Sabha Speaker Nanohar Joshi took the intiative and a concert was drawn up. The one-hour programme will have no fixed format and "music according to the mood will be played". A 'Kajri' recital would, however, be included as "Baba" is very fond of it, Ghosh said.
Defending the ailing maestro's demand for financial help from the government, she said "Baba has never demanded anything for himself. Even the petrol pump he wanted was for his grandson. It was only when he fell ill and got worried about who would look after his family that he demanded help".

Ghosh said the maestro was happy with the response his call for help generated.

Bureau Report