SSB's journey through music and service

Behind the melodies infused with the rich musical traditions of Lucknow's Gharanas lies a story of endurance, evolution and innovation.

- Godhooli Sharma

LUCKNOW: Behind the melodies infused with the rich musical traditions of Lucknow's Gharanas lies a story of endurance, evolution and innovation. These Gharanas, some of which have flourished for over three centuries, have borne witness to the world's transformation—from the dawn of the industrial revolution to the age of artificial intelligence.

On the occasion of World Music Day which falls on June 21, Khalifas and Ustads from Lucknow's renowned Gharanas share the enduring journey for preserving and expanding these musical legacies: innovation rooted in tradition and global promotion without losing identity.

Ilmas Hussain, Khalifa of the Lucknow Tabla Gharana, said the Gharana is among the most prominent in the country. It is credited with influencing the creation of the Farrukhabad and Banaras Gharanas and is known for its unique style of playing the tabla using all ten fingers.

"The Gharana was established under the patronage of the Nawabs in the mid-18th century and has continued to evolve with the fast-changing world," said Hussain. "In the age of rock and jazz, we have stayed rooted while branching out—collaborating with Flamenco, Uzbekistani, and Afghanistani music. These fresh approaches have helped us stay relevant and promote our Gharana globally."

Ustad Gulshan Bharti, head of the Qawwal Bacchon Ka Gharana, said their music—deeply influenced by Sufism—has always focused on Swar (notes), Taal (rhythm) and Laya (tempo), making their Qawwalis both spiritual and engaging.