A recess for childhood

Laugh and sing with your kid, or by yourself, at this event for the young and the young at the heart

“Healthy music and literature for children is as important as nourishing food,” says renowned Marathi composer, singer and author, Saleel Kulkarni. “Early exposure to enriching, quality work ensures that even if we may not be able to create a good artiste out of every child, every child would become a good listener,” he adds, as he recalls how he was once introduced to a child who loved singing. “His parents looked on proudly as the kid belted out an item number innocently,” he says.

That certainly won’t be the case on Sunday, when children will join Kulkarni as he sings his compositions — as well as those by Marathi literary stalwarts like Vinda Karandikar and Mangesh Padgaonkar, and critically acclaimed poet, singer-songwriter Sandeep Khare — especially created for them. The event has been organised by Banyan Tree’s Tender Roots — an initiative to expose young minds to diverse perspectives through the performing arts. Titled Madhli Sutti (school recess), the event derives its name from Kulkarni’s television show about kids, their school life and memories from childhood. The one-hour performance filled with songs and stories promises to take the audience on a journey into the beauty and excitement that can only be perceived through the eyes of a child.

Saleel Kulkarn

“Most cultural events in the city do not allow children below a certain age, which limits the number of educational cum entertaining programmes available to them,” says Harshada Kalelkar, senior manager - events at Banyan Tree Events Pvt Ltd.

“But our programmes are not just for the young, but also for the young at heart,” she smiles.

Agrees Kulkarni, who will be performing with his 11-year-old son Shubhankar, “Talking to kids requires a child within you.”

On January 15, 11 am
At Veer Savarkar Smarak Auditorium, Shivaji Park, Dadar (W).
Call 9223231359
Cost Rs 250

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