Lecture Demonstration- Dr Chaitanya Kunte
Pandit Kumar Gandharva is widely regarded as a rebel and iconoclast. He questioned many aspects of the world of Khayal, most importantly the idea that Gharana (stylistic) affiliation defines a Khayal singer. But in many respects, Kumarji was a deep traditionalist. Through audio clips, analyses, and stories, Dr Kunte will explore this paradox at the heart of Kumarji's creative genius. He will dwell in particular on Kumarji's creations of jod raga-s or ragas created by fusing previously existent ragas.
Dr Keshavchaitanya Kunte is a performer, composer, educator and musicologist. Alongside a prolific performing career as a harmonium player, Dr Kunte has published four books and several research articles and has spearheaded several initiatives as a creative musician and scholar. He is an Assistant Professor of Music at Pune University, and the Founder-Director of the Dr Ashok Da Ranade Archives for Performing Arts and Culture, Pune.
He has received the Govindrao Patwardhan Harmonium Award, Keshavrao Bhole Composer Award, Vasantotsav Award, Rohini Bhate Award for dance-music compositions, Music Forum Research Award, Sardar Abasaheb Mujumdar Award and others.
In his lecture at Ahmedabad University, he delved deep into the rebellious world of Pandit Kumar Gandharva. He explored the paradoxical nature of Kumarji, who remained a staunch traditionalist while simultaneously challenging conventions within the realm of Khayal and the concept of Gharana. Using audio clips, captivating stories, and insightful analysis, he shed light on Kumarji's creation of ingeniously fusing existing ragas to create jod raga-s or ragas.
Date: October 6, 2023
Time: 6 PM
Venue: 314, Black Box, School of Arts and Sciences
