Wellbeing Week RAAG Concert

On the last day of Wellbeing Week, several students took part in Habs Indian Charity concert. It was called RAAG which means ‘beautiful melody’ and was an exciting fusion of Asian music with a Western taste.

The concert included numerous Bollywood songs, a cover of Shape of You by Ed Sheeran with an Indian twist and traditional Indian classical music. The talented team included sitars, tablas, harmoniums as well as vocalists all coming together for a wonderful concert. With the help of Dr. Frances Shepard – who runs her own Music foundation and has a PhD in the ethnomusicology of India – the students organised this School concert which was entertaining for all.

RAAG was a fundraiser for charities, with the money this year going to Veerayatan who strive to uplift and empower humanity – guided by the principles of Humanitarianism (Seva), Education (Shiksha) and Development (Sadhna). Keeping these principles in mind the trustees of Veerayatan have taken many steps from providing support to the education establishments for underprivileged children in Bihar, by supporting the modern eye hospital and a well equipped orthopaedic centre in Rajgir, India.

Indian classical music is known to quiet one’s mind and relax their muscles, making one feel soothed while releasing the stress of the day. This music can be found to have a profound effect on both the emotions and the body. It can help student’s concentrate more and make them feel more optimistic about life.

Yash in Year 10, who organised the concert, said:

“RAAG has been a great way to play melodic and peaceful Indian music for the School while hearing the wonderful talents of many students. During the rehearsals, we have bonded and made new friends as well as enjoy every minute of the concert. It truly felt inspirational to perform our Indian instruments to all our friends and teachers and this is what makes RAAG so enjoyable for Habs.”