Top-grade AIR artist Sangeetha Balachandra is set to perform a non-stop 25-hour singing marathon of Dasara Padas in Udupi to secure a place in the Golden Book of World Records.

  • Sangeetha Balachandra will sing non-stop from August 23, 6:30 AM to August 24, 7:30 AM.
  • The event, titled 'Panchavimshati', will take place at Geetha Mandira, Udupi.
  • Approximately 250 rare compositions will be performed in new ragas.

In a stunning display of musical endurance and devotion, Sangeetha Balachandra, a top-grade artist of All India Radio (AIR) and a renowned playback singer, is preparing for a historic bid for the Golden Book of World Records. She aims to sing 'Dasara Padas' non-stop for 25 hours in the spiritual hub of Udupi, Karnataka.

Speaking to the press in Mangaluru on August 18, Ms. Balachandra detailed that the marathon session will commence at 6:30 a.m. on August 23 and conclude at 7:30 a.m. on August 24 at Geetha Mandira, located near the iconic Udupi Sri Krishna Mutt. The event, aptly named 'Panchavimshati', is designed to celebrate her 25-year milestone as both a playback singer and an AIR artist.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that this endeavor transcends a mere record attempt; it serves as a critical revival of the 'Dasa Sahitya' tradition. By selecting 250 compositions that are rarely performed by contemporary singers and arranging them in new ragas, Balachandra is bridging the gap between ancient spiritual poetry and modern musical interpretation.

The technical scale of the event is equally impressive. She will be supported by two batches of eight musicians playing the keyboard, rhythm pad, flute, and tabla. To maintain the strict requirements of the world record, she will be permitted only a 10-minute break every three hours.

"The intersection of spiritual devotion and physical stamina in classical music is rare; this attempt is a testament to the artist's mental fortitude."

Preparing for this grueling 1,500-minute challenge, Ms. Balachandra has undergone rigorous practice for the past three months. The repertoire will include the profound Kannada compositions of legendary saints such as Purandaradasa, Kanakadasa, Gopaladasa, and Vijayadasa.

This event is expected to be a first of its kind in Karnataka, and potentially India, where a female vocalist undertakes such a prolonged non-stop performance of devotional compositions, marking a significant moment in the state's cultural history.

Did You Know?: Dasara Padas are central to the Haridasa movement of Karnataka, which sought to spread the philosophy of Madhvacharya through music and poetry in the common tongue.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the significance of the name 'Panchavimshati'?
A: 'Panchavimshati' refers to the number 25, symbolizing both the 25 hours of singing and the 25 years of Sangeetha Balachandra's professional career.

Q2: Where and when will the record attempt take place?
A: The attempt will take place at Geetha Mandira, near Udupi Sri Krishna Mutt, starting from 6:30 a.m. on August 23, 2026.