New Delhi, March 4: Dr. Gangubai Hangal is a name that resonates whenever the greats of Indian classical music are mentioned. Her profound voice and musical depth brought new recognition to the Kirana gharana. She was the first female vocalist from Karnataka to achieve national acclaim in music, overcoming numerous struggles along the way, and elevating the pride of her state.
Despite facing social challenges, she attained greatness through hard work and dedication. Although her grandmother sang Carnatic music, Gangubai sought her own path. She traveled to Kudgoli to receive training from the esteemed Sawai Gandharva, who taught her with great dedication.
Gangubai shared a close guru-brother relationship with the Bharat Ratna Pandit Bhimsen Joshi, who affectionately called her ‘Akka.’ There’s a memorable anecdote about their bond. While Bhimsen Joshi was her junior, he often asked her questions while filling water or sitting at the station, calling out “Akka, Akka,” inquiring about various ragas and how his guru had taught her. Gangubai would patiently explain everything to him.
Many in the music world believe that after listening to Gangubai, it became challenging for others to sing. Her voice was incredibly melodious and impactful. Gangubai’s personality was humble and down-to-earth, and her family was equally admirable. She made a name for herself not just in Mumbai, Delhi, and Kolkata, but also internationally, especially in France, where her singing and the ambiance she created are still fondly remembered.
She dedicated her entire life to music. One of her significant contributions was the establishment of the Dr. Gangubai Hangal Gurukul in Hubli. She wished for future generations to avoid the hardships she endured. Consequently, she requested Chief Minister Yediyurappa for support, leading to an immediate announcement of ₹5 crore for the Gurukul. This institution is the only government Gurukul in India where music is taught through the guru-shishya tradition. Over the past 12 years, many talented artists have emerged from this Gurukul, which boasts renowned teachers, and is considered a pride of Karnataka, thanks to Gangubai’s legacy.
Titles like Padma Vibhushan pale in comparison to her musical knowledge. She instilled rigorous practice in her students, taught the values of public life, and guided many artists on their paths. With a heartfelt and humanistic personality, Gangubai earned international recognition after completing her education up to the fourth grade. In her honor, the government established the Dr. Gangubai Hangal University of Music and Fine Arts in Mysore, along with a Gurukul in Hubli and a Peeth in Dharwad.
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