MUMBAI: To mark the birth centenary year (2025–2026) of Maharashtra’s beloved vocalist, Padma Shri Manik Varma (16 May 1926 – 10 November 1996), a series of nationwide musical tributes has been organized. Following the overwhelming success of the ‘Manik Moti’ book launch and the ‘Manik Ratna Awards’, Manik Varma Foundation and Pancham Nishad present a three-day classical music festival — “Manik Swar Mahotsav”.
This grand celebration will be held at Ravindra Natya Mandir, Prabhadevi, Mumbai, on the following dates:
1. Friday, October 10, 2025 – 8:00 PM
2. Saturday, October 11, 2025 – 8:00 PM
3. Sunday, October 12, 2025 – 10:00 AM
A Tribute by India’s Finest Classical Artists
Renowned vocalists from across India will come together to pay a soulful tribute to Manik Tai’s timeless musical legacy. The festival will feature performances by Indrani Mukherjee, Jayateerth Mevundi, Pt. Venkatesh Kumar, Shashwati Mandal, Devaki Pandit, and Omkar Dadarkar.
Award Ceremony
In recognition of exceptional contributions to Indian music, the Manik Varma Foundation in association with the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC), will confer the following honours:
Manik Gandhar Award: Shridhar Phadke, Ashok Hande, Dr. Vidyadhar Oke, Anand Bhate.
Manik Smruti Award: Omkar Dadarkar, Neelakshi Pendharkar, Appa Vadhavkar
Voices from the Family
“I find it impossible to put into words the love I have for my mother. With her sweet and melodious voice, along with her determination, hard work, and perseverance, she upheld and enriched the pure tradition of Indian classical music and won the hearts of countless listeners. On the occasion of her birth centenary, through the book ‘Manik Moti’ and the three-day classical music festival ‘Manik Swar Mahotsav’, we, her daughters, are attempting to repay in some small way the immeasurable debt of being her children.” Says Rani Varma – Singer, Recordist, Film Producer
“My mother’s voice still resonates in my heart. Her music created an invaluable cultural inheritance for us and for generations of music lovers. Paying tribute to her through this festival fills me with deep pride and joy,” says Vandana Gupte, a renowned actress known for her work in Marathi stage productions along with television and film:
“My mother was not just a great artist — she was the gentlest soul I have ever known. Her simplicity, love, and constant encouragement shaped our lives and filled us with confidence. Though I could not pursue music the way she hoped, her pride in me never diminished. She taught me that true greatness lies in humility and kindness — and that is the legacy she has left with me forever.” Said Bharati Achrekar, noted Marathi and Hindi theatre, film, and television actress
Shashi Vyas, Founder & Director of Pancham Nishad, said :
Manik Tai’s music is an invaluable treasure that will be remembered for generations. Her voice carried a divine blend of sweetness, devotion, and tradition. ‘Manik Swar Mahotsav’ is not merely a tribute — it is a beacon of inspiration for generations to come.
Ticket Information
1. Season Passes (3 Days): Available on www.bookmyshow.com
2. Daily Tickets: Available from October 8 at the Ravindra Natya Mandir Box Office
About Manik Varma – Maharashtra’s ‘Manik Ratna’
Padma Shri Manik Varma (1926–1996) was much more than a singer — she was a luminous figure in the Indian musical tradition. Her voice, filled with sweetness and strength, enriched Hindustani classical music as well as Marathi bhavgeet, natya sangeet, and devotional compositions. Her immortal songs such as “Ghananila Ladivala,” “Kshanbhar Ughad Nayan Deva,” “Amrutahuni God,” “Hasale Mani Chandane,” and “Sawalach Rang Tuzha” continue to enchant audiences even today. Her artistry was rooted in rigorous classical training and lifelong dedication to music.
The Manik Swar Mahotsav stands as a heartfelt celebration — an offering of gratitude to Maharashtra’s precious ‘Manik Ratna’, whose voice continues to inspire generations.