A veena concert by a young virtuoso is set to enthral music-lovers this evening, as the Bahrain Keraleeya Samajam (BKS) continues its Onam celebrations.
As part of Sraavanam 2026, the BKS’ Onam celebrations, Veena prodigy Neelgreev from Kerala will present ‘Melodious Musica’ tonight at 7pm at the BKS complex in Segaya.
“Melodious Musica will offer a unique musical experience through the enchanting sounds of the Veena, featuring the richness of Carnatic music along with popular songs in various Indian languages,” a BKS spokesperson said, in a statement.
The veena is an ancient, large plucked string instrument from India belonging to the lute family.
Neelgreev, who is in Grade 10 at Kodakara Saraswathi Vidyanikethan Central School in Kerala, demonstrated talent in music from a young age. He began his musical training under his father, musician Sudheer, and later continued his Veena training under renowned Veena artist A Ananthapadmanabhan.
His special interest in his grandmother’s Veena at the age of nine led him to pursue music seriously.
Neelgreev has won several state-level prizes in light music and classical music at the school level.
He has had opportunities to perform before prominent musicians and artists and has received several recognitions, including the Rotary Club’s International Excellence Award.
In addition to the concert, there will be a grand Charadu Pinnikkali show, platforming a traditional group dance form that is gradually becoming rare. The show will start at 7.30pm at the BKS Diamond Jubilee Hall.
“Organised under the auspices of the Samajam Women’s Forum, the mega Charadu Pinnikkali performance will feature more than 100 artists, including women, men and children,” BKS president P V Radhakrishna Pillai added.
“Combining precise movements, mathematical patterns, rhythm, co-ordination and intense concentration, Charadu Pinnikkali is an art form that demands teamwork and a strong sense of rhythm.”
The performance is being choreographed by renowned theatre practitioner Vishnu Natakagramam, with Nimmy Roshan and Vijina Santhosh leading the co-ordination.
It will feature four distinct styles of Charadu Pinnikkali – Oonjal Thunnikkali, Uri Thunnikkali, Aale Chuttikkali and Kachappuram Thunnal.
The organising committee for the festivities is being led by Mr Pillai, secretary Varghese Karakkal and Sraavanam general convener Harikrishnan Nair.
Admission to all Sraavanam 2026 events is free.
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