Person in News: Pandit Chhannulal Mishra
Context:
The passing of Pandit Chhannulal Mishra at the age of 89 marks the end of an era for Hindustani classical music.
He was celebrated as a “living repository of the musical traditions of Banaras”
He was renowned for making classical forms accessible to the masses.
His Contributions to Gharana and Hindustani Music:
To gharana
He was a foremost exponent of the Kirana gharana.
He was equally celebrated as a master of the purab ang (eastern style) Thumri of the Banaras gharana, making him a unique bridge between these two illustrious traditions.
His unique mastery in blending the traditions of two major gharanas made him one of the most respected artists of his generation.
To Hindustani Music:
He was an expert in the Khayal and Thumri genres of singing.
His versatile repertoire also included a wide array of semi-classical and folk forms such as Dadra, Chaiti, Kajri, Hori, and Bhajans.
His performances were deeply imbued with Bhakti rasa and were known for their soulful and emotive quality.
Major Awards:
Padma Vibhushan
Padma Bhushan
Sangeet Natak Akademi Award