For the first time in India...
Introducing Gunijaan Bandish Pratiyogita, a prestigious pan-India bandish contest. Ideated by Aparna Kelkar, curated by Shashi Vyas, produced by Grace Foundation and managed by Pancham Nishad Creatives Pvt. Ltd. This contest celebrates the birth centenary year of the legendary Pandit C. R. Vyas.
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Gunijaan Bandish Competition

Dive into the heart of Indian classical music with the Gunijaan Bandish Competition. This prestigious contest, brought to life by the GRACE Foundation and Aparna Kelkar, serves as a vibrant platform for young talents to showcase their skills, connect with the heritage of Indian performing arts, and contribute to its flourishing legacy. Inspired by the legendary virtuoso, Pandit Chintaman Raghunath Vyas, this competition is more than a contest; it's a movement to hunt, nurture, showcase and celebrate the future stars of classical music.

Bandish Legacy

The contribution of Pandit C.R. Vyas to this segment of Indian classical music was revolutionary, synthesizing compositions that not only adhered to the rigorous demands of classical traditions but also pushed the boundaries of creativity. Each Bandish he composed was a story told through notes and rhythms, a unique expression of the raga it represented.
His book, "Raag Sarita", comprising of 150+ compositions, is not merely a collection of compositions; it's a gateway into the mind of a musical genius, offering insights, inspiration, and a direct connection to the essence of true Indian classical music.

ABOUT PANDIT C.R. VYAS (GUNIJAAN)

Pandit Chintaman Raghunath Vyas, known as Pandit C.R. Vyas (1924-2002), was renowned for his powerful and musical voice, enriching classical music significantly. He blended the styles of the Kirana, Gwalior, and Agra gharanas, allowing him to creatively explore musical heritage. Vyas was known for his innovative approach to ragas, as seen in his creation of unique ragas like Dhankoni Kalyan, Sanjogiya, and Shiv Abhogi.

In Dhankoni Kalyan, he introduced komal nishad, giving the raga a distinct identity. His compositions, such as the bandish "Ab Mope Chaye Raho" in Bilaskhan Todi, were notable for their innovative structure.

His book Raag Sarita" serves as an important reference for music students and artists. Vyas composed over 200 bandishes under the pen-name Gunijaan and was an expert in rare ragas. As a revered teacher, he shared his knowledge with many students, making lasting contributions to music education.

Pandit C.R. Vyas was, for his immense contribution to world of Indian classical music, conferred with many prestigious awards like Padma Bhushan, Tansen Samman, Sangeet Natak Akademi, Marathwada Bhushan, Maharashtra Bhushan, Master Dinanath Puraskar to name few.

Born in Dharashiv, Maharashtra, trained under notable figures from the Kirana, Gwalior, and Agra gharanas, he was further enriched by interactions with esteemed musicians and scholars like Annasaheb Ratanjankar, Pandit K.G. Ginde, Pandit SCR Bhat, Pandit Chidanand Nagarkar, Vidwan M.D. Ramanathan (Carnatic Music).

Prizes & Recognition

Male Vocal Category

First Prize

Winer: ₹1,00,000

Second Prize

First Runner Up: ₹50,000

Third Prize

Second Runner Up: ₹25,000

Female Vocal Category

First Prize

Winer: ₹1,00,000

Second Prize

First Runner Up: ₹50,000

Third Prize

Second Runner Up: ₹25,000

Additional Opportunities

“ 1. All participants will be awarded a certificate of participation, acknowledging their contribution and effort.
2. Beyond monetary rewards, winners and finalists could receive numerous opportunities for future performances, showcasing their talent on prestigious platforms. ”

The Thought Behind Gunijaan Bandish Pratiyogita

The "Gunijaan Bandish Pratiyogita" honors my guru, Padma Bhushan Pandit C.R. Vyas on his birth centenary, celebrating his profound influence on Indian classical music. Rooted in saintly traditions, Guruji's upbringing in the Kirtan tradition nurtured his innovative spirit and unwavering dedication to music.
His ability to express life's experiences through music, combined with his spiritual depth, serves as an inspiration. Specific compositions like "Sanjh Ki Ber" ,"Savariya Ghar Nahi Aye", and such other bandishes illustrate the emotional depth of Indian classical music. These compositions, often likened to precious jewels, embody the essence of ragas and were presented by renowned artistes like Pandit Jitendra Abhisheki, Veenatai Sahasrabuddhe, Malini Tai Rajurkar, Ganapati Bhat and many more in their concert performances.
Understanding and embracing tradition while fostering innovation is essential for the evolution of any art form. The Gunijaan Bandish Pratiyogita, curated by Guruji's son Mr. Shashi Vyas, signifies a commitment to passing on musical innovations to future generations. In conclusion, this collaboration ensures the continued flourishing of Indian classical music, enriching the lives of listeners for years to come.
 - by Aparna Kelkar
(Ideator and Senior Disciple of Pandit C.R. Vyas)

FROM THE DESK

The year 2024 marks the birth centenary of the legendary vocalist of Hindustani Classical Music, Padma Bhushan Pandit C. R. Vyas. Apart from being one of the leading vocalists, he was also a great composer and guru. As a composer, he penned more than 200 compositions/bandishes under the pen name ‘Gunijaan’ and also created new raagas like Dhankoni Kalyan, Sagera, Sudh Ranjani, and Shiv-Abhogi, to name a few.
We at GRACE (Gunijaan Research Art Culture & Education) Foundation, a company registered under Section 8 of the Indian Companies Act, 1956, feel that it would be apt and befitting to hold a pan-India “Gunijaan Bandish Pratiyogita”, a unique contest wherein participants are required to sing any one of the 200 bandishes penned by Gunijaan, to celebrate the centenary year of Pandit C.R. Vyas, alias Gunijaan.
The contest will have two separate categories, one for male vocalists and the other for female vocalists, with an age limit of 16-30 years.
The prize money for each category is as follows:
Winner: ₹ 1,00,000/-
1st Runner-up: ₹ 50,000/-
2nd Runner-up: ₹ 25,000/-
The objective of this contest is not only to offer a perfect platform for young, aspiring, talented male and female vocalists but also to create awareness about the importance of and the need to study the contemporary compositions exploring new dimensions/perceptions of raag sangeet.
This is the first time in the history of classical music that a contest of this kind is being held on such a large scale at a national level.
 - by Shashi Vyas

Meet the Meticulous Minds Driving the Gunijaan Bandish Pratiyogita

The Gunijaan Research Art Culture & Education (G.R.A.C.E.) Foundation unites the diverse facets of Indian Performing Arts, fostering collaboration, and ensuring their preservation in a sustainable way. Our proposed innovative online portal intends to facilitate member connections, allowing for the exchange of ideas and information. As a custodian of these ancient arts, we also focus on archival work and documentation, making our portal a key repository for this rich heritage.
By organizing workshops and events nationwide, G.R.A.C.E. aims to enhance awareness and appreciation for Indian Performing Arts, engaging communities and inspiring future generations. Join our mission to celebrate and elevate India's artistic legacy through our unique initiative ‘Gunijaan Bandish Pratiyogita’.
Vision
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Vision of the foundation

1. Forming a legal entity, which will “REPRESENT” the fraternity of Indian Performing Arts.

2. Foundation to act as a platform for different stakeholders to “COLLABORATE” more and to use each other’s strengths (Eg: Event Organizer in Mumbai collaborating with Event Manager in West Bengal/Assam OR Aspiring music student from Kerala training from a Guru based in Delhi OR Upcoming young artiste from Tier-1 & Tier-2 cities connecting with Event Organizers in Metro Cities).

3. All the registered members of the Foundation will have an opportunity to voice their suggestions to their other working intermediaries through the Foundation. Thus, SHARE and SUPPORT each other.

4. Year-round activities within the field of Indian Performing arts across the country with better “RESOURCE POOLING”, this will be overseen by a professional group of managers.

Contact Us

+91-9422170247
+91-7045597505
support@gunijaanbandish.in
904/905, Plot 16-18, The Nellai Heights, Pandit C.R. Vyas Marg, Swastik Park, Chembur- 400 071
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Registration starts from 10th May 2024