The idea of Third Space identifies three key social environments: home, work, and third spaces. Third spaces offer informal settings for community interaction and creativity. However, the rise of the internet has endangered these spaces, leading to weaker community connections and shallower relationships.
We’re committed to fostering real-world communities. We value physical gatherings in neutral spaces that welcome everyone, encourage creativity, and promote meaningful interactions. We’re here to build connections and support a space for the curious and inspired.
What is Moksha?
Moksha in Indian philosophy refers to liberation from the cycle of birth and rebirth (samsara) and the attainment of spiritual enlightenment. It is the ultimate goal in Hinduism, Sikhism, and Buddhism, representing eternal bliss and unity with the divine.
In Indian classical music, moksha can be seen as a transcendental experience for both musician and listener. The improvisational ragas and intricate taals evoke rasa, creating an immersive, transformative state. For musicians, performing is a form of spiritual practice (sadhana), while listeners can experience moksha by connecting to the music on a deep, immaterial level.
This Year’s Theme
ATRIBUTE TO ZAKIRHUSSAIN
Ustad Zakir Hussain’s passing in 2024 was a tremendous loss to Indian classical music and the global arts community. A tabla virtuoso and cultural icon, his influence continues to shape generations of musicians. This year ’ s Moksha Festival theme, “A Tribute to Zakir Hussain,” honours his legacy and the timeless impact of his music. Pt. Yogesh Samsi — his guru-bhai and disciple of Ustad Allah Rakha — will present a special tribute performance in his memory.
THE SACRED STRINGS OF INDIA
The sitar and sarod are among India’s most iconic instruments, their voices carrying centuries of tradition and spiritual depth. This year, Moksha Festival honours these sacred strings with performances by two masters: Padma Bhushan Pt. Budhaditya Mukherjee (sitar) and Pt. Arnab Chakrabarty (sarod).
Pt Arnab Chakraborty
ognized as one of ers, rooted in the pur traditions. A an Mukherjea, Pt. , and Ustad Irfan formed over 800 oss 35 countries.
Alongside his global performances, he is dedicated to preserving the sarod’s heritage while innovating its design and technique for future generations.
Ut. Sukhvinder Singh ‘Pinky’
Born in Sri Bhaini Sahib Punjab Ustad Sukhvinder Singh “P He traine gharana Punjab g
He has performed worldwide with maestros including Pt. Ravi Shankar, Ustad Vilayat Khan, and Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, and appears on the Grammy-winning album A Meeting by the River. His artistry blends tradition, power, and rhythmic brilliance.
Pt. Yogesh Samsi
Pandit Yogesh Samsi, a disciple of the legendary Ustad Allah Rakha and gurubhai of the late Ustad Zakir Hussain, is one of India’s foremost tabla masters. Celebrated for both solo and accompaniment performances, he has played alongside luminaries such as Ustad Vilayat Khan, Pt. Bhimsen Joshi, and Pt. Shivkumar Sharma, and was honored with the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 2017.
Shri Hardeep Chana
Hardeep Chana is a Toronto-based Indian classical musician specializing in the harmonium. Immersed in music from a young age, he has learnt from stalwarts such as Prof Ranjit Singh and Shri Tanmay Deochake. Hardeep has had the privilege of sharing the stage with esteemed maestros, including Ustad Zakir Hussain, Pt. Yogesh Samsi, Pt. Anindo Chatterjee, and Smt. Kaushiki Chakraborty, among others.
Pt. Budh
One of India’s fo surbahar maestro Budhaditya Mukh Imdadkhani (Etaw trained under his Acharya Pandit B Mukherjee. Celeb gayaki ang, flawl spellbinding tone audiences worldw
Honoured with the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (2010) and the Padma Bhushan (2019), he continues to set the gold standard in Hindustani instrumental music.
Nandy
Soumen Nandy, a dynamic tabla artist from West Bengal, trained under Pt. Pankaj Chatterjee and now continues under Pt. Arup Chattopadhyay. He has performed widely in India and abroad with maestros including Pt. Budhaditya Mukherjee and Ustad Aashish Khan, and is admired for his rhythmic precision, creativity, and sensitive accompaniment.
