ARRIVAL LOUNGE
MY WORLD THROUGH VEENA
Radhika Baskar’s journey exemplifies the transformative power of music.
In the Canadian musical landscape, Radhika Baskar is a beacon of cultural fusion and artistic mastery.
An accomplished veena artiste, Radhika Baskar’s expertise extends across the vast landscape of Carnatic music, a classical tradition often synonymous with the southern regions of India.
The veena is a chordophone instrument with a centuries-old legacy, explains Baskar, whose renditions breathe fresh vitality into age-old melodies, infusing them with contemporary flair and cross-cultural influences. Known for her impeccable thanam improvisations, she captivates audiences with her ability to blend tradition with innovation seamlessly.
Baskar embarked on her musical journey at the age of nine. By seventeen, she was already gracing the stages of All India Radio, television, and prestigious concert venues across India.
She released her album, Radhika Bhaskar on Veena, in 2014, under the banner of Saregama Records. This milestone marked the beginning of a career that would soon transcend borders and captivate audiences across the globe.
In 2017, Baskar embarked on a new chapter, immigrating to Canada with her husband and two daughters. While the transition posed its challenges, her talent and dedication did not go unnoticed. The Mississauga Arts Council swiftly recognized her as a gem within their artistic community, and she became an integral part of Canada’s vibrant cultural tapestry.
Her contributions have been celebrated with numerous accolades, including the prestigious RBC Newcomer Arts Award in 2020, presented by the Toronto Arts Foundation. Baskar’s performances have graced illustrious events such as Canada 150, where she served as the main instrumentalist in an ensemble choreographed by Karthik Ramalingam.
Her creative output extends beyond traditional boundaries, with seven original compositions and singles available on major streaming platforms. Notable performances such as her duet with pianist Adhithi for a live art battle organized by the Art Gallery of Mississauga highlight Baskar’s versatility and collaborative spirit. She continues to champion the cause of cultural exchange, having performed at venues like the Small World Centre. Baskar won the Mississauga Arts Council’s prestigious MARTYS award in 2023.
In addition to her artistic achievements, she has been a catalyst for community engagement, receiving a civic award from the Mayor of Mississauga in 2023. Her tireless efforts to promote cultural awareness and appreciation have culminated in successful music concerts curated through the City’s grant program.
Radhika Baskar’s journey exemplifies the transformative power of music to transcend boundaries and unite diverse communities. Through her mastery of the veena and unwavering dedication to her craft, she continues to enrich lives and spread joy wherever her melodies resonate. As she remains committed to her mission of sharing the beauty of Indian classical music with the world, her legacy as a cultural ambassador and musical virtuoso only continues to grow.
• If you’d like to share the story of your arrival in Canada, please write to desinews@rogers.com or call 416-695-4357.