Meet the Visionaries Behind MMF: Three passionate leaders

Co-Founder & Director of Artistic and Creative Direction, Massachusetts Music Foundation (MMF)

As the youngest of four siblings, Debashis Sengupta was raised in a music-rich household in Kolkata, India, where melodies were more than entertainment—they were a way of life. Surrounded by creativity, arts, and crafts, music stood out as his foundation, and he quickly became immersed in a wide range of genres, from classical compositions to the golden era of Indian film songs. Alongside his sister Shyamali, he became known for impromptu performances at family and community gatherings—sparking a lifelong devotion to the art of singing.

Throughout high school and college at Jadavpur University, Debashis remained a prolific performer of Hindi and Bengali film songs, always ready to uplift social gatherings with his soulful voice and deep musical sensibility. His unique ability to internalize sur, taal, and laya allows him to not only master the essence of a song but to guide others in doing the same.

Professionally, Debashis has built a successful career in market research and data analytics in the Greater Boston area. Yet music has remained his guiding light—his north star and raison d’être. Over recent years, he has pursued intensive training under Pandit Amit Chakraborty of the Kasuri Patiala Gharana, deepening his understanding of Hindustani classical music and vocal discipline.

At MMF, Debashis brings both artistic excellence and emotional intelligence to his role as Director of Artistic and Creative Direction. He leads initiatives that develop voice culture, stage confidence, and stylistic finesse among aspiring singers. His approach is both technical and deeply human—helping students transform nervous energy into musical confidence, and guiding them toward becoming the best version of themselves.

In partnership with Pandit Amit Chakraborty, Subhra Biswas, and Pratima Penumarthy, Debashis is joyfully immersed in MMF’s mission to make high-quality, culturally rooted music education accessible and meaningful. His leadership reflects his unwavering commitment to music not just as a skill—but as a transformative life force.

Co-Founder & Director of Program & Curriculum Development, Massachusetts Music Foundation (MMF)

Subhra Biswas is a distinguished classical vocalist and dedicated educator with over two decades of experience in nurturing musical talent and inspiring creativity. As Co-Founder and Director of Program & Curriculum Development at MMF, she brings a deep understanding of Indian classical music, a strong pedagogical foundation, and a heart-centered approach to teaching.

Subhra began her musical journey at the age of five, undergoing 15 years of rigorous training in Hindustani classical music through Pracheen Kalakendra, Chandigarh. Her commitment to lifelong learning continues through advanced training with eminent gurus in Kolkata, India—reflecting her dedication to both tradition and growth.

Throughout her career, Subhra has blended her musical knowledge with a passion for teaching. In India, she actively mentored students for school programs and used raag-based music to emotionally support and empower children. Her ability to use music as a therapeutic and expressive tool has left a lasting impact on students of all ages.

Now based in Greater Boston, Subhra specializes in personalized voice training, focusing on vocal strength, modulation, and style. Her customized lessons are designed to foster discipline, confidence, self-expression, and teamwork, helping each student cultivate a lasting connection to music. Her curriculum philosophy emphasizes individual potential while honoring the classical roots of the art form.

In addition to Hindustani classical music, Subhra is well-versed in Rabindra Sangeet, Nazrul Geeti, Indian light classical, and Bollywood genres. She is a regular performer at major community events, including Durga Puja, Diwali, and Independence Day celebrations—where she continues to share her rich voice and cultural depth with diverse audiences.

With grace, discipline, and an unwavering belief in the power of music, Subhra plays a key role in shaping MMF’s educational journey and nurturing the next generation of passionate performers

Co-Founder & Director of Operations, Marketing & Outreach, Massachusetts Music Foundation (MMF)

Pratima Penumarthy is a powerhouse of visionary leadership, strategic execution, and soulful purpose. As Co-Founder and Director of Operations, Marketing & Outreach at the Massachusetts Music Foundation (MMF), she brings unmatched energy and heart to every aspect of the organization. With over 16 years of experience building and leading impactful, mission-driven ventures, Pratima is the driving force behind MMF’s operational excellence and its growing community presence.

A deeply passionate leader, Pratima manages MMF’s full operational spectrum—including program development, logistics, marketing, and outreach—with sharp attention to detail and unwavering purpose. She is known for turning bold ideas into tangible results through thoughtful planning, dynamic team coordination, and action-oriented leadership. Her vision has helped establish MMF not just as a music school, but as a vibrant ecosystem where creativity, culture, and connection flourish.

Music has been a part of Pratima’s soul since childhood, rooted in devotional singing and the rich traditions of her upbringing. That early bond with music continues to guide her as she works tirelessly to make music an accessible, empowering, and transformative experience for all. For her, MMF is more than an organization—it’s a calling.

Her leadership is further shaped by an impressive entrepreneurial journey. Pratima is the founder of Arya Math Academy and Stepping Stones Family Childcare & Preschool LLC—both built from the ground up with her trademark blend of heart and hustle. She also serves as the Executive Director of Volunteering for Seniors, a nonprofit dedicated to enriching the lives of older adults through wellness and creative engagement. Across all her roles, Pratima is recognized for her bold vision, operational brilliance, and unwavering commitment to service.

With extraordinary passion, integrity, and leadership, Pratima is helping shape MMF into a thriving, sustainable force for musical excellence and cultural celebration—where every student finds not just a voice, but a purpose.