Assam: Padma Shri Kiran Seth visits Dibrugarh to create awareness on classical music

Dibrugarh: Padma Shri Dr. Kiran Seth, the 74-year-old founder of SPIC MACAY (Society for the Promotion of Indian Classical Music and Culture Amongst Youth) visited upper Assam Dibrugarh and interacted with students and teachers of various institutions to create awareness on Indian classical music and Indian culture.

Dr. Seth has a deep connection with Dibrugarh because his father Bhoj Raj Seth was the first vice chancellor of Dibrugarh University in 1966.

He spent his childhood at Dibrugarh University and was very excited to see the place he spent his childhood.

Speaking to this correspondent, Dr. Seth said, “I started the ‘solo cycling’ on August 15, 2022, from Kashmir to Kanyakumari. During the solo trip, I have witnessed many things. My main objective of solo cycling is to spread the message that cycling  is good for physical and mental health helps the environment and promotes Mahatma Gandhi’s vision of simple living and high thinking.”

“I started cycling on August 15, 2022, from Srinagar and reached Kanyakumari on February 14, 2023. During my solo cycling, I learned many things,” he said.

He said, “Now we are extending the yatra to other parts of North Eastern States via Flight/Train/Road. I had recently travelled to Itanagar where I met with the Chief  Minister and the Governor of Arunachal Pradesh who assured  support to the movement.”

“We need a movement to change society and for that, we need the support of the young generation. We need to know the basic things which we have forgotten. The young generation should play a proactive role to change the society,” Dr. Seth said.

“Indian classical music is being looked upon as a way to perform on stage. Through SPIC MACAY we want children to touch the soul of Indian classical music. Once they identify with the soul, there is nothing that will stop them from becoming human beings who can never go wrong,” Dr. Seth added.

 SPIC MACAY Cycle Yatra reached IIT Guwahati on January 2, 2024, and conducted multiple meetings including with the Governor.

“He cycles on a basic bike with no gears, fancy accessories, or GPS!! He travels with limited pairs of clothes and personal items with minimal stuff. His main aim is to create awareness of Indian classical music and its culture among youths,” said Dr. Rajee Konwarh, chairperson of SPIC MACAY, Dibrugarh chapter.

She added, “Dr. Seth visited schools and colleges in Dibrugarh and interacted with students.  On 16th February, Dr. Seth will address the Principal, Faculty and students of Shree Bharati Institute of Professional Education followed by an open meeting with students and faculty of Dibrugarh University. On the 17th of February, Dr. Seth will meet Patron members of the Dibrugarh chapter and well-wishers of SPIC MACAY and address an organisational meeting with the members of the Heritage Club of the College and the Principal, D.H.S.K. On the 18th of February, he will address a meeting at Dibrugarh Sattriya Sanskritik Kendra, Dibrugarh and on the 19th at J.N.Vidyalaya, Moran.”