Remembering Ustad Bade Gulam Ali Khan: A Legend of Indian Classical Music

New Delhi, April 1: In the realm of classical music, certain names shine brightly, their brilliance undiminished by the passage of time. Ustad Bade Gulam Ali Khan, often referred to as the ‘Tansen’ of the 20th century, is one such luminary. His unique style of singing and the sweetness of his voice continue to resonate with music lovers today. April 2 marks the anniversary of his birth.

Bade Gulam Ali Khan hailed from the Patiala gharana. He elevated the genres of khayal and thumri to new heights. His voice was so melodious and flexible that he lent his voice to the character of Tansen in the iconic film ‘Mughal-e-Azam.’ Songs like ‘Shubh Din Aayo’ and ‘Prem Jogan Banke’ remain popular even today.

Born on April 2, 1902, in the village of Kesur near Lahore, Pakistan, music was his inheritance. His father, Ali Baksh Khan, was a renowned sarangi player, and his uncle, Kale Khan, was also a singer. From a young age, he dedicated himself to rigorous practice, often rehearsing for up to 20 hours a day. Following the partition in 1947, he moved to India and became an Indian citizen in 1957.

In a heartfelt interview, Pandit Jasraj recounted a touching incident. In 1960, while visiting Mumbai, he met Ustad Bade Gulam Ali Khan, who was unwell at the time. As Jasraj and his companion massaged Khan’s feet, the maestro suddenly became emotional and said, “Become my disciple.” Jasraj humbly replied, “Chacha Jan, I cannot learn from you.” Surprised, Khan asked, “Why?” Jasraj explained, “I must carry forward my father’s legacy.” This response brought tears to Khan’s eyes, and he wept, saying, “May Allah fulfill all your wishes.”

Jasraj noted that the proposal to become the disciple of such a great master, followed by Khan’s emotional response, showcased the maestro’s sensitivity and deep commitment to music. At that time, Jasraj was a disciple of his elder brother, Pandit Maniram, and was upholding the traditions of the Mewati gharana.

Bade Gulam Ali Khan infused Punjabi flavor into thumri and developed a new style of khayal. His singing was simple yet profoundly impactful. Initially, he refused to sing in films but later lent his voice to ‘Mughal-e-Azam.’

In 1962, Khan was honored with the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award and the Padma Bhushan. He married Ali Jiyai in 1932, and his son, Munawwar Ali Khan, also a classical singer, often performed alongside him. Ustad Bade Gulam Ali Khan passed away on April 25, 1968, in Hyderabad.