Chandigarh is a familiar getaway for Delhi folks, be it for the mouth-watering paranthas and butter chicken, a stopover en-route Kasauli, or just a breath of fresh air. This December, the city is offering a touch of music to add wings to those weekend plans. The Tri-City will witness a celebration of Jazz music with its very own Open Hand Jazz Festival. Featuring some of the best musicians from India and around the globe, #DSSCRecommends you mark your calendars for this extravaganza pronto!
The festival borrows its name from the iconic Open Hand monument in the Capitol Complex of Chandigarh. The distinct wordplay also symbolizes an openness to new cultures and art forms, something that encapsulates the festival’s spirit to introduce the city to jazz in all its forms such as blues, funk, soul, Latin and of course, traditional jazz.
Chandigarh’s foray into jazz music has been conceptualized by Prithvideep Singh and Nipun Cheema. Prithvideep, the man behind Upstairs Club — a gorgeous rooftop bar in Chandigarh — is an avid blues vocalist; while pianist-composer Nipun is recognized for curating various Chandigarh-based music projects. The duo feel, at its core, the festival aims to “generate curiosity and increase awareness.” Besides these two, the festival family is made up of a diverse set of extremely talented volunteers, partners, sponsors, and contributors, all of whom wish to promote the cause of jazz music and create a larger appetite and appreciation for the cultural arts.
Well, it is safe to say that the team has gone all out for its inaugural edition with an eclectic lineup from across India and the U.S.A! Day one will feature the Delhi-based band, Kitchensink — regulars at jazz festivals across the country, whose innovative soundscape will prove to be a soothing start to the festival. The trio of Nipun Cheema, Aditya Dutt, and Sonic Shori, that forms Song of the Ghetto, will perform a unique jazz set incorporating Balkan and Folk sounds. Bringing a little Latin flavor to Chandigarh, Pradyumna Singh Manot’s Poco Loco is bound to get the audience up on their feet and grooving.
Bluegrass Journeymen
Some traditional Bluegrass music for the soul? On day two, all the way from Boston, the Bluegrass Journeymen will grace the audience with this conventional American music genre. Day two will also feature MND FLO, a group that draws from its diverse make-up. They will showcase a more contemporary and easy-flowing sound. With her melodious voice and an enigmatic stage presence, the songstress Vasundhara Vee will be the ultimate cherry on top of this jazz-tastic cake!
We’re packing our bags and our best outfits for a jazz ‘n’ blues weekend with our tickets in hand. You can book yours here.
#DSSCTopTip: Visit their website for special packages that include rooms at the gorgeous WelcomHotel Bella Vista by ITC.
Feature Image: L: Vasudha Vee; R: Pradyumna Singh Manot
