Indian Music Series Expands In CA With Support From Worah Family Foundation
Photo: The Worah family focuses on giving back to education, environment and the arts.
By BHARTTI KUMAR
IRVINE, CA – Philanthropists Anupama and Mihir Worah are bringing world-class Indian and global music to Southern California through their latest initiative, the Next Wave Series at UC Irvine’s Winifred Smith Hall.. Launching in partnership with Dhwani Academy, the series will showcase both established artists from India and emerging talents from the U.S. and Orange County.
The first concert on March 30 will feature vocalist Sanjeev Abhyankar and the Chari sisters, followed by a fusion performance with L. Shenkar (Carnatic) and Rakesh Chaurasia (Hindustani) on April 19. The season will conclude with a performance by sarod maestro Ustad Amjad Ali Khan on November 1.
Mihir Worah emphasized their vision of enhancing live music experiences for audiences and performers alike. “What you often see is world-class Indian musicians performing in temples, community centers, and high schools, where both the acoustics and facilities are substandard. We are trying to provide state-of-the-art venues and equipment, so that both artists and audiences have a very special experience.”
Beyond music, the Worahs have been active philanthropists since founding the Worah Family Foundation in 2016. Environmental conservation is a key focus, with Mihir highlighting their major support for the World Wildlife Fund-India (WWF-India). “We feel strongly that protecting the environment and economic progress are not mutually exclusive. WWF-India is extremely aware of the need for harmony between humans and nature, and they are very cost-effective in their conservation efforts.”
Their foundation has also played a crucial role in facilitating significant U.S. donations specifically earmarked for WWF-India. “This process has gained strong support both here in Southern California and in Silicon Valley,” Mihir noted.
In addition to their work in environmental preservation, the Worahs are deeply committed to education. Anupama serves on the board of Think Together, a California nonprofit that provides expanded learning opportunities to over 250,000 students, helping prepare them for college and careers. Their foundation provides financial support for these initiatives, reflecting their dedication to children’s academic growth.
Since retiring from their professional careers, the couple has focused more on philanthropy, travel, and their shared passion for music. “Music is a universal language that brings cultures together,” Mihir said. “We feel that live music makes our lives so much richer, and we want to bring this experience to the Southern California community.”
