Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (NP)

Udupi, Jan 3: Udupi witnessed a historic cultural moment on Friday as Vidushi Deeksha Ramakrishna successfully completed ‘Purandara Gaana Narthana’, a rare and innovative presentation involving the simultaneous rendering of classical singing and Bharatanatyam dancing to the compositions of Sri Purandara Dasaru, thereby securing her place in the Golden Book of World Records.

The record attempt was organised by Hejje Gejje Foundation, Udupi–Manipal, at Nutana Ravindra Mantapa, MGM College, Udupi, commencing at 8.30 am. A felicitation ceremony was held later in the evening at 5 pm in the presence of several dignitaries, artistes, and cultural patrons.

The programme featured accompaniment by noted musicians Vidwan Satish Bhat Hoggar and Vidwan Shashikiran (Manipal) on harmonium, Vidwan Madhava Acharya (Udupi) on tabla, and Vidushi Vijetha Hegde, a disciple of Vidwan Sheshadri Iyengar and Pandit Yogesh. The dance presentation was performed by Vidushi Deeksha Ramakrishna along with students of Hejje Gejje Foundation (R.).

The achievement was formally certified by Dr Manish Vishnoi, Asia Head of the Golden Book of World Records, who announced the successful completion of the record attempt and presented the official recognition.

Addressing the gathering, Udupi MLA Yashpal A Suvarna said, “This achievement brings great pride to Udupi and Karnataka. Vidushi Deeksha Ramakrishna has beautifully blended devotion, discipline, and art, taking our cultural heritage to a global platform. Dr Manish Vishnoi needs to come here often, because Udupi is a city of immense talent — known not only for its education but also for its rich and vibrant cultural performances.”

Former MLA Raghupathi Bhat remarked, “Hejje Gejje is a renowned organisation through which many students have gained name and fame. Purandara Dasaru’s compositions are the soul of Karnataka’s Bhakti movement, and presenting them through such a rare and demanding art form is truly commendable. This world record is a great inspiration for young artistes.”

Expressing her gratitude, Vidushi Deeksha Ramakrishna said, “This record is a humble offering to Sri Purandara Dasaru. I dedicate this achievement to my gurus, my students, Hejje Gejje Foundation, and everyone who believed in this vision of combining gaana and narthana as one. This journey demanded immense discipline, devotion, and collective effort, and I am deeply thankful to my family, accompanists, and well-wishers for their constant support. I hope this achievement inspires the younger generation to explore our classical arts with sincerity and innovation, while staying rooted in tradition.”

Dr Manish Vishnoi said, “The Golden Book of World Records is a US-based organisation that recognises extraordinary achievements across the world. Today, Deeksha accomplished something truly remarkable. This is one of the toughest performances I have witnessed. Some people sing, some dance, but she did both simultaneously. Classical dance itself is difficult, and performing it in combination with classical singing is extremely challenging.”

Other dignitaries present included Dr M Vishwanath Pai, vice-principal, MGM College, Udupi; Vidwan Madhoor P Balasubramanyam of Madhuradhwani; Vidwan Raghavendra Acharya, AIR artiste; and Dr Sharana Basava, Founder President of Shri Basava Trust, Ballari, among others.

The event concluded with sustained applause and appreciation from art lovers, marking the occasion as a landmark moment for Indian classical dance, music, and devotional heritage.