Classical Music

Classical Music is an important component of Rajasthan Art & Culture, reflecting the rich musical heritage and refined traditions of the region. It is based on well-defined principles of ragas, talas, and classical compositions, developed through centuries of cultural evolution. In Rajasthan, classical music traditions have been preserved and promoted by royal patronage, temples, and renowned musicians.

Forms and Styles in Classical Music

Classical Music which is a disciplined form of practice based on scriptures, raga, and tala, and has evolved through the Guru–Shishya (teacher–disciple) tradition. In Rajasthan, its development took place under the patronage of royal courts, from where, through centres such as Jaipur, Tonk, and Mewar, the emergence of various musical gharanas became possible

DHRUPAD STYLE –

• Founder – Man Singh Tomar, ruler of Gwalior
• Court Musician – Baiju Bawra
• Man Singh Tomar himself was a scholar and accomplished musician
• The Dhrupad style of singing began with the collaboration of Baiju Bawra
• Major Talas – Chautal, Matt, Brahma, Lakshmi, Sul, Teevra
• Other Musician – Swami Haridas (Associated with the Atrauli Gharana)
• The only Dhrupad female vocalist of the state – Madhu Bhatt Tailang
• Four styles (vani) of dhrupad style
  • GOHAR VANI
    • Origin – Gwalior
    • Founder – Tansen
  • Dagar  Vani
    • Origin – Jaipur
    • Propagator – Brijnand Dagar
  • Khandar Vani
    • Origin – Uniara (Tonk)
    • Founder – Samokhan Singh, ruler of Khandar
  • Nauhar Vani
    • Origin – Jaipur
    • Founder – Shree chand Nohar

Major Classical Music Gharanas of Rajasthan