Raagas in Reflection - Fundraising event to support the East Japan Tsunami Relief

On May 21st Bengali Association of Southern California, Los Angeles organized and
presented yet another memorable event, “Ragas in Reflection” in the presence of a cheering
international audience at the Performing Arts Centre, Baldwin Park, California.  
Conscious of its social responsibility, BASC created a special initiative, an Indo‐Japanese
multicultural endeavor, and a fundraising event to support the East Japan Tsunami Relief. The
show opened with a musical rendering by the renowned Indian classical musician Mala
Ramadorai who performed Carnatic and Hindustani music accompanied by tabla and
harmonium. From Rag Maru Behag to Desh and many more, Mala continued to entertain the
audience in a style that is unique to her. The audience became quite engaged when Mala sang
a folk song from Rajasthan and a classic piece of Rabindra sangeet. Her later renditions
included ghazals, taranas and a devotional piece about Giridhari (Lord Krishna). Debasish
Chaudhury on Tabla and Narendra Kulkarni on harmonium performed equally with poise much
to the awe of the audience whose resounding applause echoed in the packed auditorium.  
Ms. Ramadorai is currently on a tour of North America, conducting performances, lectures,
and musical workshops in an effort to bring awareness of Indian culture and a greater
appreciation for all the myriad forms of Indian music.  
The next attraction of the evening was an unparalleled presentation of Japanese
percussion performed by an LA‐based group: Koshin Taiko. Koshin is not only unique in its
exclusive use of Okedou ("roped tightened") drums, which have been hand crafted by
members but also in its style and presentation of taiko. The enthralling performance left no
doubt about the level of dedication of the performers who practice out of the Venice Japanese
Community Center in the heart of Los Angeles.. Together, all of the performers brought a
bright and spirit‐filled energy into each and every performance. The vibrant quality of the
band which is unique to taiko, gives a literal interpretation to Koshin: Bright Heart and Spirit.
Dr. Koichiro Isshiki graced the evening as the chief guest. Dr. Isshiki, a professor of
Computer Information Systems at California State Polytech University, Pomona was
appreciative of the talent of the performers. He profusely thanked Mrs. Mala Ramadorai and
the non‐profit, cultural organization: Bengali Association of Southern California, Los Angeles,
for working closely to seek opportunities to support humanitarian relief efforts to help Japan.

It is common knowledge that music knows no barriers. In fact, it is even considered as
the international language and a means of communicating with other people in a language
that is universally understood. That music in its purest form unites and binds us all since music
knows no barriers and is universal was once again proved by the immense success of the
evening that was “Ragas in Reflection”!