In an era when societal influence tends to circulate through the well-known mediums of donations, volunteering, and fundraisers, Chaand Mathur selected another tool, literally. This is the performing arts group which, since May 2018, is led by the Pune-based vocalist and former Rotary President, and whose performances are not entertainment but medicine to people who need it the most. In recognition of this unique contribution, he was recently honoured with The Pride of Maharashtra Awards’ recognition for Excellence in Performing Arts for Social Impact 2026. Sur Sangam is an organization that operates out of Magarpatta City in Pune and has taken seven years to prove that a song sung at heart can do what a cheque will not.
A Promise That Every Stage Would Serve
Mr Chaand Mathur founded Sur Sangam on a principle both simple and radical: every performance would come at no cost to the beneficiary. The group performs at orphanages, hospitals, old age homes, and charitable organisations entirely at the members’ own expense. Each artist contributes to production costs, a model that has collectively raised over Rs 4 lakhs without charging a single rupee in ticket fees. Members often extend support directly to beneficiaries, reinforcing a culture of unconditional giving.
Sustaining a Mission Without Sending a Bill
This commitment is sustained through a carefully structured financial approach. Sur Sangam negotiates discounted rates with videographers and sound professionals and secures reduced fees at government auditoriums. These deliberate choices ensure sustainability while preserving the group’s “no cost” promise, a model that has remained intact for over seven years.
Curating Hope, One Song at a Time
The group’s music is as intentional as its mission. Setlists are curated based on audience needs, blending retro Bollywood, raga-based compositions, patriotic, devotional, and motivational songs. Only uplifting music is performed, avoiding melancholic selections. A balanced mix of Hindi and Marathi ensures deep cultural resonance, keeping performances engaging and meaningful.
Performing Blindfolded: When Art Becomes Advocacy
On World Eye Donation Day, the group performed blindfolded, an act rooted in empathy, not theatrics. By simulating visual impairment, they encouraged audiences to reflect and respond, leading many to pledge eye donation. It exemplified Sur Sangam’s ability to transform performance into awareness.
Saluting Soldiers Through Song
Their work with soldiers at QMTI and the Paraplegic Rehabilitation Centre in Pune stands among their most moving contributions. With the presence of Major General Atul Seth and retired Major General Ghoghale, the performances became interactive, with soldiers joining in. These moments dissolved barriers and fostered lasting bonds, with the group returning multiple times.
Beyond the Stage
Sur Sangam has also supported causes such as Autism Awareness, Shanti Van, the Cipla Foundation, Dada Moni Ashram, and No Hungry Child in Bangalore, reinforcing its belief that music belongs where it is needed most.
Applause That Matters More Than Awards
For Mr Mathur, success lies in applause and connection, not revenue. His work earned him the Pride of Maharashtra Awards for Excellence in Performing Arts for Social Impact 2026. He has also received the Pune Passions Icon 2024 and Icon of India 2025 awards, and has been nominated for the Bharat Icon Award 2026.
Leading Despite Limitations
Since 2022, he has continued to lead despite a mobility limitation, supported by his family and team. As founder, he nurtures Sur Sangam as a collaborative, family-like collective, with his wife, Sushma Mathur, not only co-hosting programs but also serving as a constant source of inspiration to him and all group artists.
The Challenge Beyond the Stage
He identifies structural challenges, where smaller initiatives lack access to the institutional support available to larger organisations. Growth, he believes, depends on outreach through social media, competitions, and platforms like Insight Success.
A Quiet, Enduring Chord
In Pune’s commercial landscape, Sur Sangam remains a quiet force of purpose. Through every performance, Mr Mathur reinforces a simple idea: music, when driven by intent, can move people in ways nothing else can.
Contact Details-Mob-9561718181 Mail-mathurcb@gmail.com
Visit https://www.facebook.com/chand.bahadur.mathur
https://www.facebook.com/Sureelefriends/
http://www.youtube.com/@chaandmathur981