L. Shanker Headlines First Concert at Reopened Istana Budaya

August 6, 2026

L. Shanker Headlines First Concert at Reopened Istana Budaya

KUALA LUMPUR, 6 August 2026 — Grammy-winning musician L. Shankar will headline BEYOND WORDS – International Mastery Meets Malaysian Artistry, the first international concert to be staged at the reopened Istana Budaya on 22 August 2026. The one-night performance will also raise funds for the SWARA Community Arts Centre.

Presented by E2Rventures with support from Solara Group of Companies, the concert brings together L. Shankar—renowned for his 10-string Double Violin—with a distinguished lineup of Malaysian musicians in a production centred on artistic collaboration and cultural exchange. Organisers said the performance departs from the traditional format of an international headliner backed by local performers by positioning Malaysian artists as equal creative partners.

The Malaysian ensemble features Samuel J. Dass on sitar, Prakash Kandasamy on tabla, Shawalnaz Hussin on keyboards and arrangements, Muhardiman Ismail on seruling, Hadi Maswardi on bass, Paavendran Langkadran on percussion and programming, and guitarists Eliezer Enan and Marco Alonso. Together, the musicians will perform original works blending Indian classical music, jazz, rock, pop and traditional Malaysian influences into a unified musical experience.

L. Shankar described the production as a unique musical journey built on open collaboration and mutual understanding between artists from different musical traditions. Samuel J. Dass said the concert demonstrates the strength of Malaysia’s contemporary music scene by showcasing local musicians alongside an internationally acclaimed performer as equal collaborators.

Istana Budaya said hosting the production reflects its renewed commitment to presenting world-class performances while strengthening Malaysia’s position as a cultural crossroads. Executive Producer James Isidore of E2Rventures added that the concert celebrates the ability of music to bridge cultures while highlighting Malaysian talent on an international platform.

Beyond the performance, the initiative supports the SWARA Community Arts Centre’s efforts in music education, cultural preservation and youth development, reinforcing the organisers’ commitment to nurturing the next generation of Malaysian artists.