Music and Art Come Alive at Goa’s Malhar and the Sea

Set against the stunning shores of Arossim Beach at ITC Grand Goa, Malhar and the Sea was a vibrant celebration of music, art, and culture. Over three unforgettable days, the festival, organized by Showhouse, featured an eclectic mix of artists, blending Indian classical music with visual arts and contemporary performances.

The festival kicked off with a relaxed hi-tea hosted by the lively Ira Dubey, where attendees mingled under the monsoon rains and sea breeze. Things really picked up with performances by the extraordinary Kaushiki Chakraborty, whose powerful vocals left a lasting impression, and Purbayan Chatterjee, who dazzled on the sitar. Their individual solos, followed by an electric jugalbandi, set the mood for what was to come.

One of the standout moments of day one was the magical collaboration between Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, the legendary sarod maestro, and renowned artist Paresh Maity. During Strokes and Strings, Maity created a live painting while Ustad Amjad played soul-stirring ragas—a beautiful fusion of sound and art. The painting was later auctioned for the National Association for the Blind, adding a heartwarming, philanthropic touch to the evening.

Later, rising Sufi sensation Shivam Bhardwaj took the stage, lighting up the night with his performance.

Day two started on a more laid-back note with a fun mixology masterclass by Beckaly Franks, the cocktail queen from Hong Kong. Her inventive drinks provided a refreshing break before the music took over again.

The evening’s highlight was the dynamic sarod duo, Amaan Ali Bangash and Ayaan Ali Bangash, whose energy and skill left the audience spellbound.

As the night went on, sitar legend Ustad Shujaat Hussain Khan and Grammy-winning flutist Rakesh Chaurasia performed together for the first time in Suron Ki Barsaat. Their duet was nothing short of mesmerizing, creating a deep connection with the audience by blending tradition with freshness.

The night closed with a lavish dinner, followed by an epic after-party featuring blues icon Gary Lawyer and pop sensation Kaiya Maxfield from London. Their high-energy set had the crowd on their feet, dancing well into the night.

The last day of the festival had a more relaxed vibe, with a casual breakfast and heartfelt farewells. Malhar and the Sea wasn’t just a typical music event—it was a deeply immersive experience that beautifully blended tradition with modernity. The fusion of classical melodies, contemporary art, and emotionally charged performances created moments that will be cherished by everyone who attended for a long time.