KISHORI AMONKAR (1932-2017)
Kishori Amonkar was one of the most revered and intellectually profound exponents of Hindustani classical music, known especially for her mastery of the khayal genre. Born in Bombay (now Mumbai) on April 10, 1932, she was trained by her mother, Mogubai Kurdikar, She began performing in public as a child, initially accompanying her mother on the tanpura. Her independent musical career blossomed from the 1960s, establishing her as a transformative force in Indian a distinguished vocalist of the Jaipur-Atrauli gharana. From this rigorous lineage, Kishori imbibed a strong foundation in raga grammar, voice culture, and the uncompromising discipline of traditional performance. Yet, Amonkar’s artistry was never confined by orthodoxy. While rooted in the JaipurAtrauli style, she evolved a highly personal approach by drawing from other gharanas such as Agra and Gwalior, as well as from Carnatic sensibilities, prioritizing emotive expression over stylistic rigidity. Her ability to imbue ragas with profound emotional intensity—what many described as "painful melancholy"—made her performances deeply moving and intellectually stirring. While khayal remained her forte, she also
excelled in thumri, bhajan, and film music—notably composing and singing for the acclaimed Hindi film Drishti and earlier contributing to the soundtrack of "Geet Gaya Patharon Ne".
Renowned for her introspective and philosophical interpretations, Amonkar often likened singing to dialogue with a living being, approaching each raga as a living entity with its own emotional and spiritual texture. Her renditions were meditative journeys, marked by slow unfolding, unexpected turns, and soul-stirring climaxes. In her own words, "One
should not teach students the limits of this art … There are none. But one must understand the grammar."
She was honoured with some of India’s highest awards, Sangeet Natak Akademi Award 1985 and Fellowship 2009, Padma Bhushan 1987, Padma Vibhushan 2002, Pandit Bhimsen Joshi Lifetime Achievement Award 2012.
Her influence extended deeply into the world of music education, mentoring stalwarts like Arati Ankalikar-Tikekar, Padma Talwalkar, Meena Joshi, among others—instilling in them her unique doctrine of freedom guided by knowledge.
Kishori Amonkar passed away on April 3, 2017, just days before her 85th birthday. Her legacy continues to inspire generations of vocalists and listeners alike. By blending tradition with innovation, and grammar with emotion, she reshaped the canvas of Hindustani classical music, affirming her place as one of the towering figures in India's
musical heritage.
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