The word
devotion is often described as religious worship or love and loyalty towards a
higher being. My devotion to music is synonymous with that of a devotee to the
Lord, and it is from this sentiment that Bhakti Vandana has been conceived.
My yearning
to learn and perform Hindustani vocal was apparent from a young age. My father,
Mansukhlal Kotak, who is an accomplished harmonium and vocal artist, had a
prominent name in the London network, and this presented me with a wealth of
opportunities to perform and cultivate my talent. I would perform at live shows
and competitions as a young girl but over time, as with any woman’s life, my
priorities shifted and I devoted many years to being a loyal wife and mother.
My thirst to become an accomplished singer remained inside of me, so with the
support and encouragement of my family, I was able to follow my passion.
I began the
pivotal part of my musical journey a decade ago, where I would leave my husband
and two daughters behind weeks at a time in order to come to Mumbai in search
of the right Guru to pursue my passion. The feeling of loneliness and being
away from home was like no other, but with the focus, discipline, and devotion
inside me, I continued on my chosen path. I was fortunate along the way to meet
some very senior and inspirational personalities within the field, who have
helped to guide me and open up a plethora of opportunities for me to perform
and grow as an artist. Of notable mention is Padmashri Anup Jalota-ji, who has
taken me under his wing to give me the most selfless mentoring and support. It
is with his creative flair and deep rooted knowledge of hindustani classical
music that we are presenting the Bhakti Vandana album.
Bhakti
Vandana is a special dedication to my husband and two beautiful daughters, and
to those that have a burning desire to follow their dream but circumstances or
society rules may act as a hurdle. So there is only one thought I shall part
with….
"To
accomplish great things we must not only act, but also dream; not only plan,
but also believe.” Anatole France
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