Uttar Pradesh (UP) has been a significant contributor to the development and evolution of Indian classical music and dance. The region has a rich cultural heritage that has shaped some of the most iconic classical traditions in India. From Hindustani classical music to Kathak dance, UP has been home to legendary musicians, composers, and dancers who have preserved and enriched these art forms over centuries. This article explores the remarkable contribution of Uttar Pradesh to Indian classical music and dance forms.
1. Uttar Pradesh: The Heart of Hindustani Classical Music
Hindustani classical music, one of the two major traditions of Indian classical music (the other being Carnatic), has flourished in Uttar Pradesh. The state has produced some of the greatest musicians and has been home to influential gharanas (musical schools) that have shaped the tradition.
a. Prominent Gharanas of UP
- Lucknow Gharana – Known for its delicate and refined style of singing, this gharana is especially famous for its contributions to thumri and dadra, semi-classical genres of Hindustani music.
- Banaras Gharana – Based in Varanasi, this gharana is renowned for its emphasis on improvisation and its distinctive style of khayal, thumri, and tappa.
- Rampur-Sahaswan Gharana – This gharana, developed in Rampur, is known for its structured and disciplined approach to khayal singing, emphasizing clarity of notes and long phrases.
b. Contribution of UP to Vocal Music
- Uttar Pradesh has given India legendary classical vocalists such as Bhimsen Joshi, Girija Devi, Siddheshwari Devi, and Chhannulal Mishra, whose contributions to khayal, thumri, and dadra have been unparalleled.
- The Banaras and Lucknow gharanas played a crucial role in popularizing semi-classical forms like thumri, dadra, kajri, and chaiti.
c. Contribution to Instrumental Music
- Bismillah Khan, the shehnai maestro from Banaras, brought national and international recognition to the shehnai as a classical instrument.
- Ravi Shankar, the sitar maestro, was deeply influenced by the Banaras tradition and introduced Indian classical music to the global stage.
- Allauddin Khan, another musical genius, trained some of India’s most remarkable musicians, including Ravi Shankar and Ali Akbar Khan.
2. Uttar Pradesh’s Role in Classical Dance: The Kathak Tradition
Among the eight classical dance forms of India, Kathak has deep roots in Uttar Pradesh. The dance form evolved from the storytelling traditions of North India and flourished in the courts of Mughal and Awadhi rulers.
a. Lucknow Gharana of Kathak
- The Lucknow Gharana of Kathak, developed in the royal court of Nawab Wajid Ali Shah, is known for its graceful movements, intricate footwork, and expressive gestures.
- This gharana emphasizes bhav (expressions), natya (drama), and abhinaya (acting), making it a unique blend of storytelling and rhythm.
- Notable Kathak dancers from this tradition include Birju Maharaj, Shambhu Maharaj, and Lachhu Maharaj, who have played a key role in preserving and promoting the dance form.
b. Banaras Gharana of Kathak
- The Banaras Gharana, developed in Varanasi, is known for its vigorous footwork and fast-paced spins.
- It retains a strong connection to devotional themes, particularly those associated with Lord Krishna and Radha.
- Prominent exponents of this gharana include Sitara Devi, who brought Kathak to the Bollywood stage and beyond.
3. Contribution of UP to Folk Music and Dance
While classical traditions flourished in UP, the state is also home to a variety of folk music and dance forms that have enriched its cultural landscape.
a. Folk Music Forms
- Kajri – A monsoon song traditionally sung by women, depicting longing and the beauty of rain.
- Chaiti – Sung during the Chaitra month (spring), these songs are associated with Lord Rama.
- Biraha – A song of separation, expressing emotions of longing and pain.
- Rasiya – Popular in Braj, these songs celebrate the love of Radha and Krishna.
b. Folk Dance Forms
- Raslila – A devotional dance-drama that depicts the divine love of Radha and Krishna.
- Nautanki – A theatrical dance-drama combining storytelling, music, and dance, which played a significant role in rural entertainment.
- Dhobiya Dance – A dance form performed by the washermen community of eastern UP, celebrating social and cultural themes.
4. Influence of Uttar Pradesh on Bollywood and Contemporary Classical Arts
- Many classical musicians and dancers from UP have contributed to the Indian film industry, blending classical and contemporary styles.
- Bollywood music owes much to classical traditions from UP, with playback singers like Lata Mangeshkar, Kishore Kumar, and Mohammad Rafi having deep roots in Hindustani classical music.
- The fusion of classical music with modern genres has been pioneered by artists from UP, ensuring the continuity of these traditions.
5. Institutions and Government Initiatives Supporting Classical Arts in UP
- Bhatkhande Music Institute (Lucknow) – One of India’s premier institutions for classical music and dance education.
- Banaras Hindu University (Varanasi) – A key center for music and performing arts studies.
- Sangeet Natak Akademi (UP Chapter) – Promotes and preserves classical and folk traditions.
- Annual Music and Dance Festivals – Events like the Sankat Mochan Sangeet Samaroh in Varanasi and Lucknow Mahotsav celebrate the rich heritage of UP’s performing arts.
Conclusion
Uttar Pradesh has played a foundational role in shaping Indian classical music and dance. Its rich traditions, legendary artists, and historic contributions have ensured the preservation and evolution of Hindustani classical music and Kathak. The state’s cultural heritage continues to inspire new generations, keeping India’s classical arts alive and thriving.
