In Memoriam: Dr. Prabha Atre, a Stalwart of Hindustani Classical Music

 In Memoriam: Dr. Prabha Atre, a Stalwart of Hindustani Classical Music

It is with heavy hearts and profound sorrow that we bid farewell to a luminary of Hindustani classical music, Dr. Prabha Atre (1932 -2024), who passed away this morning in Pune at the age of 92. A doyen of the Kirana Gharwana, Dr. Atre's departure marks yet another loss in the realm of Hindustani music, following closely on the heels of Ustad Rashid Khan's demise earlier this year. Scheduled to grace an event named 'Swara-Prabha' in Mumbai today, fate took an unforeseen turn as Dr. Atre suffered a cardiac arrest in the quietude of her sleep.

Dr. Atre's journey into the world of Indian classical music commenced in Pune, Maharashtra, in 1940. Under the tutelage of her esteemed gurus, Sureshbabu Mane and Hirabai Vadodekar, she embarked on a musical odyssey at the tender age of eight. Notably, her musical pursuits coexisted with a commitment to education, leading her to earn degrees in science and law before attaining a doctorate in music. Her doctoral thesis, titled “Sargam,” delved into the nuanced utilization of sol-pha notes (sargam) in Indian classical music.

A recipient of the prestigious 'Padma Shri' and 'Padma Bhushan' awards from the Government of India, Dr. Atre's contribution to the musical landscape was unparalleled. She was not merely a vocalist but a polymath - a singer, composer, writer, professor, and a skilled performer in various genres including Tungri, Dadra, Ghazal, Semi-classical music, Theatrical music, Lyrics, and Devotional singing. Her Khayal Gayan bore the imprint of Ustad Amir Khan and Ustad Ghulam Ali Khan, showcasing her mastery as a Hindustani classical musicologist.

Beyond her enchanting renditions, Dr. Atre authored seven acclaimed books on music in Marathi and Hindi, such as "Swaranjani," "Swarangi," and "Swaranji," among others. Additionally, she penned a collection of poetry titled "Antha Swara" in Marathi, Hindi, and English. Her literary and musical legacy lives on through her numerous students, including Alka Joglekar, Vijaya Patki, Asha Parasanis, and many others.

Dr. Atre's teaching prowess extended far and wide, leaving an indelible mark on the world of Hindustani classical music. Among her cherished disciples is Mrs. Ragini Chakraborty from Assam, who, in the poignant photograph below, shares a moment with her revered guru.

As we pay homage to Dr. Prabha Atre, let us remember and celebrate the extraordinary life of a maestro whose music transcended boundaries and enriched the cultural tapestry of our nation. May her soul rest in eternal peace…. Om Shanti om…..

[Photo Courtesy of Ragini Chakraborty]