Hidden Stories | For more than 115 years, a Pune institute has kept the music alive

Over the years, it became a meeting point for some of the finest names in Indian music and theatre, including Pandit Bhaskarbuwa Bakhale, Master Krishnarao, Bal Gandharva and Govindrao Tembe. Their association helped establish the Samaj not merely as a music school, but as a centre of learning and artistic thought.

Today, more than 250 students are enrolled here, learning vocal and instrumental forms of Indian classical music. The institution is also connected with 55 affiliated organisations that conduct training and examinations under its guidance, allowing the tradition to reach far beyond its own premises.

The institution has also played an important role in making classical music accessible. From organising concerts and examinations to providing structured training, its work has helped generations develop an appreciation for an art form that can often appear complex to those unfamiliar with it.

Today, more than 250 students are enrolled here, learning vocal and instrumental forms of Indian classical music. (Photo Credit: Special Arrangement)

Sameer Puntambekar, Trustee, Pune Bharat Gayan Samaj, says, “I am associated with the Samaj for the last 25 years. I also teach tabla here; it’s been an experience of great learning, as every corner reflects art, and 80 per cent of India’s legendary artists have visited this place. It is difficult to manage things, but with dedication and pride we are trying to preserve this 115-year-old institution.”

Generation after generation of teachers, musicians, students, patrons and supporters have contributed to its survival. Their commitment reflects a simple but powerful idea: Heritage survives not merely because it is old, but because people continue to care for it.

Looking ahead

Today, Bharat Gayan Samaj is looking ahead while remaining firmly rooted in its traditions. Its vision includes strengthening residential Gurukul-style learning and providing talented students from across the country with an opportunity to receive intensive training in Indian classical music.

Sawani Dataar, another trustee of the Samaj, says, “We are the fourth generation of Pt Bhaskarbua Bakhale. I teach classical music here. This place itself is legendary as it belonged to the first woman doctor of India, Anandibai Joshi. This four-story ‘wada’ building is harbouring pieces of history and Indian classical music and literature. Initially, it followed the Gurukul system, but because of modernisation, teaching techniques have changed a little, but the essence is the same.”

Another remarkable treasure within Bharat Gayan Samaj is its library, which preserves a collection of rare books and writings that are difficult to find anywhere else in the country. Some of these works date back to the institution’s early years, making the library a valuable record of India’s classical music tradition. It houses writings by renowned personalities such as Bharat Ratna Pandit Bhimsen Joshi and several other celebrated scholars and musicians. Many of these books have survived for generations and carry the knowledge, ideas and experiences of an earlier era. For students, musicians and researchers, the library offers something beyond books; it offers a chance to connect directly with the history of Indian classical music.

(Kalyani Lad is an intern with The Indian Express)