1 week ago
Pune Institution Continues Preserving India’s Classical Music Tradition
Pune Bharat Gayan Samaj is a music institution in Pune that has existed for more than 115 years.
It was started in 1911 to teach and promote Indian classical music.
The institution is located in an old building connected with Dr Anandibai Joshi.
More than 250 students learn singing and musical instruments there.
Many other organisations also work with it to provide lessons and examinations.
Famous musicians and theatre artists have visited or worked with the institution.
Its old library contains rare books about music and writings by well-known musicians.
Teachers and supporters have helped the institution survive across generations.
It now hopes to offer more residential Gurukul-style training while keeping its traditional values.
Pune Bharat Gayan Samaj was founded in 1911 under the patronage of Kirloskar Natak Mandali.
The institution operates from a historic residence associated with India’s first woman doctor, Dr Anandibai Joshi.
More than 250 students learn vocal and instrumental Indian classical music there.
Fifty-five affiliated organisations conduct training and examinations under the Samaj’s guidance.
Its rare library, concerts, classes and planned Gurukul-style expansion support the preservation of musical heritage.
- Who
- Pune Bharat Gayan Samaj, its teachers, trustees, students and 55 affiliated organisations.
- What
- A more-than-115-year-old institution that teaches, examines and promotes Indian classical music while preserving concerts, literature and musical heritage.
- Where
- Pune, in the historic residence associated with Dr Anandibai Joshi.
- When
- Founded in 1911; it continues its activities today.
- Why
- To preserve, teach and popularise Indian classical music and make it accessible to more learners.
Key facts
- Founded
- 1911
- Original patronage
- Kirloskar Natak Mandali
- Student enrollment
- More than 250 students
- Affiliated organisations
- 55 organisations
- Teaching formats
- Vocal and instrumental Indian classical music
- Library
- Rare books and writings on Indian classical music
- Future vision
- Stronger residential Gurukul-style learning
Quotes
Sameer Puntambekar
Trustee and tabla teacher at Pune Bharat Gayan Samaj
“We are the fourth generation of Pt Bhaskarbua Bakhale. I teach classical music here. This place itself is legendary as it belonged to the first woman doctor of India, Anandibai Joshi. This four-story ‘wada’ building is harbouring pieces of history and Indian classical music and literature. Initially, it followed the Gurukul system, but because of modernisation, teaching techniques have changed a little, but the essence is the same.”
indianexpress.com
“I am associated with the Samaj for the last 25 years. I also teach tabla here; it’s been an experience of great learning, as every corner reflects art, and 80 per cent of India’s legendary artists have visited this place. It is difficult to manage things, but with dedication and pride we are trying to preserve this 115-year-old institution.”
indianexpress.com
Sources
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