Amaan & Ayaan Ali Bangash Join Malini Awasthi For A Vibrant Holi Album
MUMBAI, (ANI)- Sarod virtuosos Amaan Ali Bangash and Ayaan Ali Bangash have announced their Holi-themed album, Colors And Celebrations, in collaboration with renowned folk singer Malini Awasthi. The album is set to release on March 10.
Amaan described the album as an artistic interpretation of Holi’s cultural significance, exploring its deeper spiritual dimensions beyond the revelry. Each composition reflects themes such as the triumph of good over evil, the divine love of Radha and Krishna, and the universal joy of renewal with spring’s arrival. Ayaan explained that the album creates a sensory experience through sound, with the interplay of sarod and voice mirroring the vibrant colors of Holi. Specific ragas have been chosen to evoke different emotional tones, from the serene tranquillity of morning ragas to the passionate intensity of evening melodies.
On collaborating with Malini Awasthi, Ayaan highlighted how her deep understanding of folk traditions adds authenticity and emotional depth to their classical framework. Amaan and Ayaan Ali Bangash, representing the seventh generation of the esteemed Senia Bangash lineage, have composed five pieces that capture the essence of Holi. Holi Hues (Hori Re Rasiya) celebrates spring’s arrival, while Divine Celebration (Hori Khele Raghuveera) honors Lord Krishna’s legendary Holi festivities. Spirited Splashes (Rang Darungi) is a rhythmically complex composition, Crimson Flush (Sakhi Solah Hazaar) explores color symbolism, and Colours of Love (Rasiya Ko Naar) presents a romantic interpretation of Holi’s emotional essence.
Malini Awasthi described the collaboration as a fusion of classical and folk traditions, creating a unique musical language that honors both while offering something entirely new. The compositions reflect the universal emotions of Holi—joy, devotion, playfulness, and renewal.
The album release precedes the Bangash brothers’ highly anticipated summer 2025 international tour, which includes a residency at London’s prestigious Wigmore Hall. Colors And Celebrations will be available on all major streaming platforms and for digital download starting March 10. A specially mastered audiophile-quality 180-gram vinyl edition, featuring original artwork by painter Paresh Maity, is scheduled for release in April 2025. A limited collector’s edition will include a hardbound book with scholarly essays on the history of Holi music, rare photographs, and detailed musical notation.
