JANFEST MUSIC FESTIVAL 2026 IMG -Chhota Pt Mukundraj Kadam, Aadital, Master Mauli Gore on Harmonium.

Pakhawaj Player- Master Mukundraj Mangesh Kadam. Artist Summary: 14 yr Child Artist Mukundraj Mangesh Kadam is an accomplished Pakhawaj artist emerging from the sacred soil of Alandi Devachi, Pune. Representing the younger generation of the prestigious Panse and Mangalvedhekar Gharanas, Mukundraj blends the rigorous discipline of Hindustani classical percussion with the soulful, devotional essence of the Warkari Sampradaya. His unique musical identity is further defined by his ongoing cross-training in South Indian Carnatic Mridangam, making him a versatile rhythmist in the Indian classical landscape. Musical Lineage & Education Initial Training: Commenced his journey at the age of 7 under the strict Guru-Shishya Parampara. Primary Guru: Disciple and son of the renowned spiritual speaker and Pakhawaj Maestro, Pt. Mangesh Maharaj Kadam. Gharana Heritage: Deeply rooted in the traditions of Pt. Nanasaheb Panse and Pt. Dattopant Mangalvedhekar. Carnatic Integration: Currently expanding his rhythmic vocabulary through the study of Mridangam under the international maestro Vidwan Mumbai Acharya ShankarNarayan. Artistic Philosophies Mukundraj’s artistry is inseparable from his spiritual upbringing. As a dedicated devotee of Shri Vithal Bhagwan (Pandharpur), he views his percussion as a medium of Seva (service). He is a practitioner of the Gurukul tradition, maintaining the sanctity of the Maharashtra Saint Parampara through: Warkari Bhajan & Kirtan accompaniment. Preservation of ancient rhythmic cycles (Taals) unique to the Pakhawaj. Traditional Maharashtrian devotional compositions. Select Performance Highlights Mukundraj has performed on some of India’s most esteemed stages, showcasing both solo mastery and collaborative excellence: Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC): Performed under the "Banyan Tree" musical forum. Tender Roots: Featured as a promising young talent in Indian classical music. MSN Academy, Mumbai: Classical solo recitals. Rajani Memorial Trust, Udupi: Inter-state cultural exchange performances. Indian Music Group St Xavier's College Janfest Pakhwaj solo as Child Prodigy. Statewide Warkari Festivals: Regular appearances in major Bhajan and Kirtan assemblies across Maharashtra. Technical Skills Instruments: Pakhawaj (Primary), Mridangam (Secondary). Styles: Hindustani Classical Solo, Warkari Accompaniment, Semi-Classical, and Fusion. Specialization: Mastery over the intricate "Padhant" (recitation) and "Nikas" (tonal clarity) of the Panse Gharana. "For Mukundraj, the Pakhawaj is not merely an instrument, but a rhythmic dialogue between the soul and the divine." Mangesh Tukaram Kadam. Address - House no 1451, Anil Kurhade lane,  Datta Nagar,  Behind Adhyatma Shanti Peeth, Old Charholi Road,  Alandi Devachi,   Tahsil- Khed,  Dist- Pune,  State-Maharashtra-412105 Mb-9881029039