I want to ensure the bansuri gets the identity it deserves across the world,” is legendary Indian flautist Pandit Ronu Majumdar’s prompt reply when asked about his next goal. This passion for the instrument that has shaped his musical journey over the years shines through in every question he answers. Majumdar, who is known for his jugalbandis with other instrumentalists, will take the stage at a music festival organised by St Xavier’s College’s Indian Music Group this weekend, performing alongside his son, Hrishikesh Majumdar. “I am excited about this father-son jugalbandi. I hope my 24-year-old son’s performance will inspire youngsters to take up music as a career,” he shared.

Apart from taking bansuri to the global stage, Majumdar’s efforts to popularise the instrument among the youth, is well-documented. “Youngsters are interested in learning to play the flute. Through the Ronu Majumdar Flute Foundation that I started in February 2022, I am teaching so many children from around the world,” the flautist reveals.