Sadhguru says Bengal's Bishnupur Gharana doesn’t just perform music; it meditates on it, preserving the purity of sound as a path to spiritual awakening. Bishnupur Gharana stands as a testament to Bengal’s undying reverence for tradition, where music is both a heritage and a form of worship.
Article | Bishnupur | February 16, 2022
Sadhguru: The Bishnupur Gharana, a unique style of Hindustani classical music, is not just an art form but a testament to Bengal’s cultural richness, devotion, and centuries-old dedication to music. Originating in Bishnupur, a town in West Bengal, this gharana has preserved the soul of Bengal’s classical traditions by combining elements of devotion with unique melodic expressions. Through its emphasis on the Dhrupad and Dhamar styles and the use of Vaishnavite devotional themes, the Bishnupur Gharana represents a spiritual approach to Hindustani classical music and has produced some of the most revered artists in India’s musical history.
1. Introduction
At the heart of Hindustani classical music lies the gharana system, a network of regional traditions, each with its unique style, philosophy, and approach to music. Bishnupur Gharana stands out among these for its emphasis on simplicity, grace, and devotion. Known primarily for its vocal traditions, this gharana employs both melodic intricacies and philosophical depth to convey the divine essence of music. Bishnupur Gharana is one of the few remaining music traditions to emphasize Dhrupad and Dhamar, two ancient forms of classical music, which has helped it maintain its serene, meditative quality and connection to Vaishnavite spirituality.
Founded in the 17th century under the patronage of the Malla kings, this Gharana combines influences from Bengal’s Bhakti tradition and the sophistication of North Indian classical music. It has left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of Bengal, preserving the devotional spirit of the Bhakti movement while adapting Northern styles to suit its melodic sensibility.
2. Historical Origins
The Bishnupur Gharana’s origin story intertwines with that of Bishnupur, a town steeped in history and culture. Bishnupur was the capital of the Malla dynasty, whose kings were deeply committed to the arts and intellectual pursuits. During the 17th and 18th centuries, the Malla kings transformed Bishnupur into a vibrant centre for music, art, and literature, supporting an artistic renaissance that elevated the town to prominence across Bengal.
The Malla rulers’ passion for music led them to invite renowned musicians from Northern India to their court. Influenced by Northern Indian music but imbued with local elements, Bishnupur Gharana emerged, carving out its own distinctive identity. The Malla kings were Vaishnavites, worshippers of Lord Vishnu and Krishna, which permeated the local music with a devotional quality. This emphasis on devotion continues to define the Bishnupur Gharana, particularly through its focus on Dhrupad and Dhamar—forms known for their spiritual and contemplative nature.
3. Philosophical and Cultural Influences
The Bishnupur Gharana is heavily influenced by the Bhakti movement, a devotional movement that emerged in the 8th century and emphasized personal connection with the divine. Vaishnavism, a branch of Bhakti focusing on Vishnu and his avatars, especially Krishna, forms the philosophical foundation of Bishnupur music. The themes often reflect the life of Krishna, including his relationships with Radha and the gopis (cowherd girls), symbolizing divine love and devotion.
This Bhakti influence is crucial in shaping the Gharana’s approach to music. Bishnupur Gharana’s compositions do not prioritize technical showmanship; rather, they focus on creating a space for introspection and connecting the performer and listener to a higher consciousness. This approach aligns well with Dhrupad and Dhamar, whose stately tempos and devotional nature complement the Bhakti ideals, providing a medium for spiritual exploration rather than mere entertainment.
4. Musical Structure and Characteristics
The Bishnupur Gharana’s approach to Hindustani classical music is distinctive, embodying a blend of tradition and devotion, discipline and emotion. Its music is defined by clear, simple phrasing and a serene, meditative quality. This gharana excels in balancing purity with beauty, making it approachable yet profound.
Key Features of Bishnupur Gharana
Simplicity and Devotion: Unlike some gharanas that emphasize intricate improvisations and displays of technical prowess, the Bishnupur Gharana values simplicity, clarity, and emotional depth. Each note and phrase is treated with reverence, creating an atmosphere of calm and reflection.
Raga Interpretation: The musicians of Bishnupur Gharana are known for their restrained, focused raga interpretation. Traditional ragas are favoured, and each raga is carefully treated to preserve its inherent mood, with minimal ornamentation and little emphasis on flamboyant improvisation.
Dhrupad and Dhamar: Central to the Bishnupur Gharana are Dhrupad and Dhamar forms, which are meditative and devotional. These forms are rooted in Hindu temple music and utilize slow, dignified tempos that evoke a reflective mood. The compositions, or bandishes, are structured around devotion, particularly to Lord Krishna, and follow a deliberate, solemn unfolding of the raga.
Trans and Alaps: Bishnupur Gharana’s taans (rapid note sequences) are typically smooth and melodic rather than fast or intricate. Alaps, which serve as the introductory passages to a raga, is particularly detailed and graceful, allowing the raga to unfold gently and build its mood gradually.
Instruments: The esraj is an instrument closely associated with the Bishnupur Gharana. It is similar to the sarangi and perfectly complements the gharana’s introspective, devotional sound. Other instruments, such as the tanpura and tabla, provide rhythmic and tonal support, enhancing the music’s contemplative qualities.
Vocal Emphasis: While instrumental music is present, vocal music is the cornerstone of Bishnupur Gharana. Artists treat the voice as an instrument of divine expression, aiming for tonal purity rather than technical display. This focus reflects the gharana’s philosophy of music as a medium for spiritual experience.
5. Notable Artists and Teachers
Over the centuries, the Bishnupur Gharana has produced many celebrated artists, each contributing to its growth and prominence. These musicians preserved the gharana’s core elements and expanded its repertoire, making it accessible to wider audiences.
Pandit Ramshankar Bhattacharya: One of the most revered figures in the gharana, Bhattacharya dedicated his life to the music of Bishnupur. His compositions reflect a deep understanding of Dhrupad and devotion, making him a key figure in the gharana’s history.
Pandit Gopeswar Bandyopadhyay: A legendary musician of the 20th century, Bandyopadhyay was known for his soulful rendition of ragas and his ability to evoke strong emotions through music. His dedication to Bishnupur Gharana set a high standard for generations that followed.
Pandit Jnanendra Prasad Goswami: An iconic artist in the Bishnupur Gharana tradition, Goswami was renowned for his vocal and instrumental music skills. His meticulous approach and respect for tradition helped preserve the gharana’s purity, even as he brought in new audiences.
In recent decades, contemporary artists like Pandit Ajoy Chakraborty have also brought the Bishnupur Gharana to a wider audience. Ajoy Chakraborty’s dedication to classical music and his versatility have introduced many to the unique qualities of Bishnupur music, bridging the gap between tradition and modernity.
6. Modern Relevance and Revival Efforts
In an era where music often shifts toward the popular and commercial, the Bishnupur Gharana faces challenges in retaining its traditional audience. Fewer students are committing to its rigorous training, and its classical forms are sometimes overlooked in favour of lighter or more accessible styles. However, there are several revival efforts aimed at keeping the tradition alive.
Educational institutions like Rabindra Bharati University and various music academies in West Bengal are working to preserve and promote Bishnupur Gharana. These institutions offer workshops, performances, and classes dedicated to training young musicians in this unique style. Festivals celebrating Bishnupur Gharana and other Bengali traditions are also held, giving audiences a chance to connect with the music and gain appreciation for its spiritual qualities.
In addition to live performances, the archival efforts for Bishnupur Gharana recordings and compositions are gaining momentum. Preserving these works in digital formats helps ensure that the legacy of artists like Pandit Gopeswar Bandyopadhyay and Pandit Ramshankar Bhattacharya is accessible to future generations. Moreover, as classical music enjoys a renewed interest internationally, Bishnupur Gharana stands to find new appreciation in global classical music circles.
7. Conclusion
The Bishnupur Gharana is more than just a style of music; it is a pathway to introspection and a deep reflection of Bengal’s cultural and spiritual heritage. This gharana offers a respite from the fast pace of modern life, drawing listeners into a world of serenity and devotion. Its simple, yet profoundly emotive music resonates with anyone who seeks a genuine connection to tradition and spirituality.
The future of Bishnupur Gharana lies in the hands of its current custodians—artists, teachers, and cultural patrons who recognize its value. In preserving this music, they safeguard a timeless art form that transcends individual identity and speaks to the heart of Bengal’s soul. The Bishnupur Gharana stands as a testament to music’s power to uplift, inspire, and ultimately, unify listeners with the divine.
