Prasanta Kumar Parhi

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Prasanta Kumar Parhi (born 7 June 1974) is an eminent Indian Hindustani violinist, music director, composer, and devotional singer from Bhadrak, Odisha. Known for his exceptional mastery of the violin and his deep spiritual approach to music, he has performed at some of India’s most prestigious classical and devotional festivals. His contribution as a performer, composer, and educator continues to enrich the cultural heritage of Odisha and India.

Early Life and Education

Born in Bhadrak, Odisha, Prasanta Kumar Parhi’s musical journey began under the guidance of his father and guru, Pandit Jagannath Parhi. He earned:

  • 1st Class Master’s Degree in Hindustani Violin
  • Sangeet Alankar in Hindustani Violin from Akhil Bharatiya Gandharva Mahavidyalaya (ABGM), Mumbai
  • Sangeet Visharad in Hindustani Vocal Music from ABGM, Mumbai

His classical foundation, refined under several maestros, reflects a perfect balance between technical excellence and emotional depth.

Musical Journey

Over the past three decades, Parhi has performed in leading music and dance festivals across India. His violin recitals are known for their melodic clarity, intricate ragas, and devotional resonance.

Notable performances include:

  • Konark Dance and Music Festival
  • Barabati Nrutya Utsav
  • Puri Beach Festival
  • Laxman Gada Nayak Memorial International Dance and Music Festival
  • Ekamra International Dance and Music Festival
  • Dhauli Mahotsav
  • Ahimsa Festival
  • Mukteswar Dance Festival

He has also composed and directed numerous orchestras, devotional programs, and stage productions that blend Hindustani, Odissi, and devotional musical traditions.

Literary and Compositional Works

Prasanta Kumar Parhi is also a distinguished author and composer. He has written three devotional and musical books in Odia language:

  • Bhajan Piyush
  • Chatutrinsa Bhajan Mala
  • Behela Darshan

He has composed, directed, and sung more than 100 devotional Bhajans in Odia and Hindi, combining spiritual emotion with classical structure.

Teaching and Mentorship

As a devoted teacher, Parhi trains aspiring violinists and vocalists in Hindustani classical and devotional music. His students have performed across Odisha and beyond, carrying forward his musical legacy.

Awards and Honors

Parhi has received multiple prestigious national and international awards in recognition of his excellence in music and cultural contribution:

  • Kalabhusan
  • Vadyashree
  • Rashtriya Ratna Award
  • Bharat Bhushan National Award
  • Icon of India
  • Mahatma Gandhi National Pride Award
  • Chhatrapati Shivaji Bravery Award
  • Sukumar Sahoo Samman
  • Bharat Vibhushan Award
  • Sangeet Shiromani
  • Featured in Credence Book of World Record (2025)
  • Honored by International Pride Book of Record (2025)

Gurus and Influences

His musical style was shaped under the guidance of:

  • Pandit Jagannath Parhi (Father & First Guru)
  • Ustad Md. Hameed Ahad
  • Pandit Sunil Singh Mohanta
  • Pandit Surmani Ramesh Chandra Das
  • Pandit Buddhadeb Chatterjee (Kolkata)

Musical Style and Philosophy

Prasanta Kumar Parhi’s music reflects the fusion of devotion, melody, and classical precision. His violin renditions carry the essence of meditation — where each note becomes a form of prayer. He draws inspiration from the Odissi and Hindustani traditions, embodying the soulful heritage of Odisha’s spiritual music.

Legacy

Through his compositions, teaching, and performances, Parhi continues to inspire the next generation of classical musicians. His devotion to preserving and promoting Indian classical and devotional music makes him a cultural ambassador of Odisha.

Tagline

Music is not just sound—it is devotion, discipline, and divinity.

Contact

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