New Delhi, 23 August 2026: AntarHriday Connect, in association with ITC Ltd., hosted MALHAR 2026 on 21 August 2026 at the Chinmaya HAMCO Auditorium in New Delhi, bringing together leading artists from India’s classical arts with a focus on engaging young audiences with the country’s rich cultural heritage. The event was witnessed significant participation from young audiences, reflecting strong engagement from the younger generation. The event was graced by Hon’ble Vice President of India, Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan, as the Chief Guest and held under the patronage of Shri Harsh Vardhan Shringla, Hon’ble Member of Parliament (RS).
The evening brought together prominent artistes, cultural practitioners and young audiences around Indian classical music and dance, with the objective of strengthening the connection between India’s younger generation and its civilisational and artistic traditions. Shri Harsh Vardhan Shringla’s patronage of MALHAR 2026 reflects his continued emphasis on creating greater awareness and engagement among youth around India’s cultural heritage and its enduring relevance.
The event was also attended by Shri Anil Rajput, Chairman, Bharat Ki Soch & President, Corporate Affairs, ITC Ltd., and Shri Pradeep Agarwal, CEO, Sawasdee Group, as Guests of Honour.
Addressing the gathering, Hon’ble Vice President of India, Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan, highlighted the importance of connecting India’s youth with the country’s cultural and civilisational roots. He said, “True greatness emerges when our rich culture and values flourish together. In line with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, such initiatives connect our youth to their civilisational roots, empowering them to become not just innovators for the future, but proud custodians of our timeless heritage.”
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Harsh Vardhan Shringla, Hon’ble Member of Parliament (RS), said, “This remarkable gathering celebrates the timeless beauty of Indian classical arts and their profound power to unite and elevate our society. It is particularly encouraging to see our young people engaging with these traditions, because preserving our cultural heritage also means ensuring that it continues to inspire future generations.”
The cultural programme featured performances by two of India’s leading exponents of classical arts, Padma Shri Pt. Ulhas Kashalkar, one of the foremost Hindustani classical vocalists, and Pt. Rajendra Gangani, a renowned Kathak exponent. They were accompanied by a stellar ensemble of artistes, bringing together some of India’s finest classical traditions on one stage.
Adding an international dimension to the programme, Shri Saurav Sharma from Nepal participated in the event, highlighting the enduring cultural connect between India and Nepal. In recognition of his contribution towards promoting classical music among young audiences, AntarHriday Connect conferred upon him the Youth Cultural Goodwill Ambassador for India Award.
MALHAR 2026 sought to create a contemporary platform for Indian classical music and dance, while encouraging greater participation and appreciation of these traditions among young audiences. Through the coming together of established maestros, emerging voices and youth, the initiative aims to reinforce the relevance of India’s cultural heritage in the lives of a new generation.