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Curated by Kasturi Joshi Introduction –  Jankibai of Allahabad (1880–1934) was one of the first female Indian classical vocalists to be commercially recorded. Known as “Chhappan Chhuri” for her commanding presence and fearless spirit, she was deeply rooted in the thumri, dadra, and khayal traditions. Her recordings were among the most popular gramophone records in…

Early Life and Musical Roots Born in the culturally rich city of Patiala in 1881, Ustad Abdul Aziz Khan was destined to make a mark in Indian classical music. Before becoming synonymous with the Vichitra Veena, he was highly regarded as a Sarangi player, having mastered the instrument over a distinguished career spanning more than…

Curated by Kasturi Joshi Zohrabai Agrewali (1868–1913) was not only a celebrated vocalist but also a woman of immense strength, determination, and musical talent at a time when the notion of a female public performer challenged societal norms. Born in Agra, she lived during a period when the Indian recording industry was beginning to develop.…

Curated by Swanandi Deshmukh Bai Sundrabai Jadhav, c. (1885 – 1953) Fondly known as “Punekarin,” was one of the most influential figures in Indian music during the 1920s to 1940s. Born in Pune around 1885, she later moved to Mumbai, where she passed away at the age of approximately seventy in 1953. Her presence wasn’t…

Curated by Shadaj Iyer Ustad Vilayat Hussain Khan Sahab. One of the greatest musicians of the Agra Gharana. He was not only a great musician but an extraordinary composer and a renowned guru as well. His gayaki had all the embellishments of agra gayaki, with bol banavat, bol taans, layakari, khatka and bal tans and…