Lucknow: A four-day workshop on Dhrupad singing commenced today at Bhatkhande Sanskriti University, Lucknow, under the chair established in the sacred memory of Vishnu Narayan Bhatkhande. The inaugural session was held at the university’s Sujan Auditorium in a dignified and inspiring atmosphere.
Organised by the Department of Vocal Music from February 25 to 28, 2026, the workshop features eminent Hindustani classical vocalist Prof. Madhu Bhatt Tailang as the expert mentor. She will guide students and research scholars through intensive sessions on the ancient and profound tradition of Dhrupad gayaki.
The programme began with Prof. Madhu Bhatt Tailang and Programme Convener and Head of the Vocal Department, Prof. Srishti Mathur, offering floral tributes to the idol of Goddess Saraswati. Prof. Mathur formally welcomed the distinguished expert with a bouquet in a traditional ceremony. The event was attended by Dr. Manoj Kumar Mishra, Head of the Percussion Department, along with faculty members of the Vocal Department, accompanists, research scholars, and a large number of students.
On the first day, Prof. Tailang delivered an insightful lecture-demonstration introducing Dhrupad singing and its rich, ancient lineage. She appreciated the university’s efforts in preserving and promoting this classical tradition. Explaining the etymology of the word “Dhrupad” (derived from “Dhruv” and “Pad”), she elaborated on its musical and philosophical significance. She noted that Dhrupad is one of the oldest and most serious forms of Hindustani classical music, with roots tracing back to Vedic Sama chanting and temple music traditions.
Prof. Madhu Bhatt Tailang is regarded as one of the leading exponents of Hindustani classical music and holds the distinction of being Rajasthan’s first prominent female Dhrupad vocalist. She has previously served as Dean of the Faculty of Fine Arts and Head of the Department of Music at the University of Rajasthan. A distinguished academician and researcher, she has made significant contributions to musicology, music education, and the Indian knowledge tradition. She has participated as a keynote speaker in numerous national and international seminars and has authored several research papers and articles on the history, theory, and tradition of Indian classical music.
The workshop aims to acquaint students and scholars with the depth of India’s vocal heritage, its technical intricacies, and the cultural contributions of legendary maestros. It also seeks to extend this invaluable musical legacy to a broader section of society.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Mandavi Singh stated that the university will continue organising such academic programmes to pass on the rich traditions of Indian music to the younger generation and to provide students with direct guidance from eminent gurus.
Registrar Dr. Srishti Dhawan emphasized that such workshops play a vital role in skill development while also contributing to the preservation and dissemination of India’s musical heritage.
The four-day workshop promises to be an enriching experience for participants, strengthening their understanding of Dhrupad’s profound aesthetics and timeless relevance.
