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Chhandayan ~ A true experience of Indian music ~

Chhandayan is sincerely dedicated to serve all aspects of Indian music in every possible way. With its primary mission to propagate learning, understanding and appreciation of Indian music (mainly north Indian classical), Chhandayan's activities cover almost all of the areas essential to such pursuit.

It was born in 1984 in Calcutta, India. In 1998 it got re-established in the United States of America as a not-for-profit organization. First it started its operation in the state of New York, and within a short span of time spread its wings out to New Jersey, Maryland, Florida and Pennsylvania. Today it has grown to be the most significant organization of Indian music in North America.

Chhandayan offers classes of Indian music (vocal and instrumental) supplemented by periodic workshops, seminars and lecture- demonstrations throughout the year in Manhattan and Jackson Heights (Queens) in New York, Nutley, Edison and Kendall Park in New Jersey, Potomac in Maryland, Ashburn in Northern Virginia and Cheswick (in Pittsburgh area) in Pennsylvania.

Chhandayan's series of concerts are some of the most popular and exciting events to the local community where it serves. The highlight of these series is the annual all-night concert held in New York city on the second Saturday of May, every year.

To facilitate learning Chhandayan has also developed a store with the supply of good quality instruments available online and in location (New Jersey). The store also carries selected supply of books and recorded music.

In the future Chhandayan envisions developing an archival library either on its own or in collaboration with another reputed institution.

Chhandayan publications are designed to enrich the music world with new works of music and writings. As in every other aspect, quality of content and presentation is always prioritized.

Chhandayan is constantly in the creative process of developing new and unique productions offering invaluable insight into the scopes and possibilities of Indian music and its relationship with other musical and cultural traditions. One such production is Chhand-Anand, the Bliss of Rhythm, which is an emblem of different percussion instruments from Africa, Arab, Europe, North America, South America and Asia. Similarly, Indo-Flame is a beautiful blend of Indian and Flamenco dance and music. Dawn to Dusk and Beyond depicts the correspondence and influence of music on physiology and environment.

To enhance the ambiance of Indian music Chhandayan regularly sends out musicians for different occasions. This serves the community in two ways - the attendees get a live experience and young aspirants get encouragement to be in music.

Chhandayan strongly believes in the power of music, particularly that of Indian music, which has helped human civilization to sustain over the past five thousand years. It is perhaps the most ancient tradition that is still alive and vibrant. Chhandayan is committed to create awareness as to the potency of this art-form and thereby help humanity across geographical, racial, cultural and religious barriers. Such a treasure is not to be ignored and lost, but to be preserved and promoted all across the globe and in that mission Chhandayan seeks your involvement and support.