Question

From time to time, artists of various Gharana have brought glory to their Gharana with their efficiency. Famous artists of Punjab Gharana, Ustad Alla Rakha Khan gave a new structure of Peshkar, which later on has been adopted by various artists. Whereas in the field of Pakhawaj playing, Guru Purushottam Das paid special attention to the bol of ‘Dhumkit’ due to which the tradition of Pakhawaj playing got enriched.
After reading the above passage, describe about the salient features of any two Gharanas of Tabla or Pakhawaj and also describe about the contribution of main artists belonging to these Gharanas.

Hint:

Punjab → bold tabla, Peshkar; Nana Panse → ancient Pakhawaj, Dhumkit.

Answer 1

Punjab Gharana (Tabla): - Punjab Gharana is known for its robust compositions, especially powerful Peshkar and Rela.
- Famous for bold, open bols and creative improvisation.
- Ustad Alla Rakha Khan was a legendary artist from this Gharana. He popularised the Peshkar structure and collaborated internationally, especially with Ravi Shankar.
- He trained Ustad Zakir Hussain, who modernised and globalised Punjab style.
- Punjab Gharana’s clarity and stamina have made it influential in fusion, solo, and accompaniment.
Nana Panse Gharana (Pakhawaj): - The Nana Panse Gharana (or Nathdwara) is known for ancient Pakhawaj traditions linked with Dhrupad.
- Guru Purushottam Das enriched Pakhawaj playing by refining ‘Dhumkit’ bol, adding depth to the repertoire.
- This Gharana focuses on powerful Dugun, Chaugun, and clear recitation.
- It maintains strict traditional discipline, handing down compositions orally.
Contribution: Artists from these Gharanas preserved traditional compositions, taught next generations, and expanded global respect for Indian percussion.
They showed how tabla and pakhawaj can shine as solo instruments, not just accompaniment.