Guru Kundanlal Gangani Foundation hosted a soulful and stirring evening titled ‘Tribute To The Tradition’, bringing together icons of Indian classical music and dance to pay homage to the eternal spirit of Jaipur Gharana and the visionary legacy of Guru Pt Kundanlal Gangani.
The evening’s pinnacle moment was the presentation of the Pt Kundanlal Gangani Award to Padma Vibhushan Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, whose life-long contributions to classical music continue to inspire generations. “This award carries the weight of tradition and the warmth of shared heritage,” he said.
Amaan Ali BangashCaptivating performances followed, steeped in lineage and emotion:
- Pt Rajendra Gangani, a stalwart of Kathak, offered a moving invocation of rhythm and grace in honor of Guruji.
- On Tabla, Pt Fateh Singh Gangani created a tapestry of sound rich in nuance and soul.
- Ustad Amaan Ali Bangash, carrying forward the Sarod legacy of his father, enchanted the audience alongside Shri Shubh Maharaj and Nishit Gangani on Tabla, blending tradition and innovation in each phrase.
Nishit GanganiAmid the resonance of legacy and the warmth of collective remembrance, Ustad Amjad Ali Khan received the Pt Kundanlal Gangani Award with deep humility. Dr Vinod Paul, chief guest from NITI Aayog, offered an emotional tribute to the Guru’s contributions.
Paying tribute to the Pt Kundanlal Gangani, Padma Vibhushan Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, the celebrated Sarod Maestro said, “The enduring legacy of Pandit Kundanlal Gangani Ji has been resonating through generations, redefining the future of Kathak for the time to come. It’s heartwarming to see how the deeply powerful tradition of the Jaipur Gharana that he laid foundation to, continues to thrive and deeply inspire people across the globe.”
He added, “I’m proud to see Pt Rajendra Gangani carrying the legacy forward with grace, unfolding a new chapter in the history of Jaipur Gharana, and Pt Fateh Singh Gangani, the exceptionally talented Tabla/Pakhavaj artist, marking new milestones in the world of percussion.”
Pt Rajendra GanganiSpeaking after the recital, Pt Rajendra Gangani, said, “Performing tonight was a rekindling of Guruji’s spirit. His teachings remain my guide, my rhythm, my truth."
Pt Fateh Singh GanganPt Fateh Singh Gangani, shared, “Every beat I played was dedicated to the presence of Guruji—a rhythm that lives on beyond time.”
