Antarmann — The Music Within: An Evening of Devotion, Reflection and Soulful Melodies

A musical journey that touched hearts, celebrated timeless wisdom, and brought generations together.

The audience at the Antarmann — The Music Within concert was treated to an evening of soulful music, heartfelt devotion, and introspection, as SwaraYogaShala presented a thoughtfully curated musical experience in support of Support A Child (SAC) at the Om Hindu Community Center in Billerica.

The concept and program was the brainchild of Sudha Subbaraman, singer, composer, music producer, and certified Vocal Coach & Vocal Yoga® instructor based in the Boston/Acton, MA area.  Drawing from both Hindustani and Carnatic classical traditions, the concert brought together compositions in Hindi, Sanskrit, Tamil, Gujarati, and Marathi, including bhajans and abhangs, alongside an original musical creation, Mann Ke Andar. The evening offered something for everyone—from familiar melodies that evoked cherished memories to compositions that invited deeper introspection—resonating with music lovers across generations.

The evening opened on an upbeat note with Jai Ganesh Deva, performed by lead vocalist Sudha Subbaraman alongside her young students, Masha and Vihaan. This was followed by Maitreem Bhajata, M. S. Subbulakshmi’s iconic rendition of the timeless prayer for universal harmony and friendship, setting a beautiful tone for the evening.

Young singer Sonali Rajbhandari presented a serene rendition of Om Namah Shivaya in Raag Bhoopali, while senior vocalist Ashwini Paranjape Ranade enthralled the audience with her melodious renditions of O Palanhare from the film Lagaan and Aiso Jatan Bata Ja Re in Mishra Shivranjani.

Sudha elevated the evening further with Mata Bhavani, a Drut khayal composition by the legendary Vidushi Prabha Atre in Raag Durga. Her interpretation brought additional musical dimensions through glimpses of Raag Saraswati, along with expressive alaaps, evocative nom-tom passages, and Dhrupad-inspired jhalas. She followed this with Siddha Bhajo Omkaar, a contemplative ‘nirguni’ bhajan popularized by Vidushi Veena Sahasrabuddhe, conveying a deep sense of stillness and connection with the primordial sound of Omkaar.

A particularly poignant centerpiece was Jo Mann Ke Andar, an original composition written by poet and storyteller Parveen Minocha and composed by Sudha Subbaraman in Raag Kalavati. Inspired by Parveen’s father, Shri O.P.Bindra and his teachings on self-inquiry, the song explores the inner world of our thoughts, attachments, and emotions, reminding us that the journey to peace begins within. The performance was especially meaningful as it coincided with her father's birthday, making the occasion deeply personal and nostalgic. Through poetry, narration, and music, the presentation became a heartfelt tribute to a father's enduring wisdom and the timeless influence of our gurus.

The second half continued the journey inward with Maname Kanamum, a reflective Tamil composition by Papanasam Sivan in Raag Abheri, followed by Aisi Laagi Lagan, celebrating Meera's unwavering devotion to Krishna.

Sudha and Ashwini sang together the much-loved Vaishnava Janato, highlighting the timeless values of compassion and selfless service. A lively Krishna bhajan medley delighted the audience, with listeners joining in and clapping along to familiar melodies. The evening concluded with Sudha's rendition of the Bhairavi abhang Achyuta Ananta, bringing the musical journey to a graceful close with a sense of devotion and surrender.

The concert was enriched by the evocative vocals of senior vocalist Ashwini Paranjape Ranade, the expressive contributions of junior vocalist Sonali Rajbhandari, and the skilled sangat of tabla artist Rajesh Pai and harmonium artist Kaavya Valiveti. Led by Sudha Subbaraman's vocals and musical direction, the ensemble brought together a memorable evening of musical artistry and collective devotion.

More than a concert, Antarmann was an invitation to pause, reflect, and reconnect—with our roots, our inner selves, and the values that unite us. The audience's enthusiastic appreciation reflected the universal appeal of music that speaks not only to the ears, but also to the heart.

At the close of the evening, Kaushik Patel, President of the Boston chapter of Support A Child, and Charu ben expressed their gratitude to Sudha and the team for celebrating and keeping our musical heritage alive while raising funds for the nonprofit's cause. Ganesh ji and Raji ji of the OM Hindu Community Center OMHCC in Billerica also thanked the team for bringing such a soulful musical experience.

The concert saw a wonderful turnout and warm support from Boston’s music-loving community, including the presence and encouragement of respected local music gurus such as Smt. Swati Panda and Kiran Nath Ji.  “Still enveloped in the lingering vibrations from a soulful, reflective and devotional evening”, said Pratibha Shah after the concert. Gunjan Radio Host and ardent music lover, Bipin bhai Parekh said, “We witnessed one of the best musical-SwaraYogaShala Fundraiser for Support A Child; A Journey with the inner self, Devotional classics, Bhajans, Abhangs, Poetics reflections, and contemplative melodies original compositions-created and presented by Sudha, Ashwini, Rajesh, Kaavya, Sonali, Parveen and child artists. It was a masterful team work of blending sumadhur vocals with skillful instrumental tunes. Congratulations to the team led by Sudha.”

The evening ended with sumptuous dinner by OM HCC, a kind gesture in honor of the artists, guests and SAC.

Antarmann reminded us that sometimes, the most meaningful journey is the one that takes us within.

Event credits:

Music Direction and Lead Vocals — Sudha Subbaraman;
Senior Vocalist — Ashwini Paranjape Ranade;
Junior Vocals — Sonali Rajbhandari, Masha and Vihaan;
Poetry, Mann Ke Andar Lyrics and Original Narration — Parveen Minocha;
Tabla — Rajesh Pai;
Harmonium — Kaavya Valiveti.

Presented by SwaraYogaShala and Om Hindu Community Center in support of Support A Child.

Visit https://www.sudhamusic.com/ for more information on SwaraYogaShala.