Dhondutai Kulkarni, (born 23 July 1927) is perhaps the last living icon of the Jaipur-Atrauli Gharana. The legendary Alladiya Khan, who founded the Jaipur-Atrauli Gharana, made this Gharana unique by its full-throated singing, its complicated Taans, and its vast repertoire of Raags, which Dhondutai Kulkarni represents very well.
Early life
She was born in a Brahmin family in Kolhapur, Maharashtra. Dhondutai's father initiated her into music. From him she became an AIR performing artiste at the age of eight. She then started training under Bhurji Khan, whose father, Alladiya Khan, had a special care for Dhondutai, and it was not uncommon to find her sitting next to the legendary performer at music festivals. Her training continued under the mentorship of Laxmibai Jadhav and Ustad Azizuddin Khan, grandson of the legendary Alladiya Khan. From Ut. Azizuddin Khan she received most of her repertoire of rare Ragas. Thereafter, she spent a long number of years under the immensely distinguished knowledge of Kesarbai Kerkar, ending up as her sole disciple.
Repertoire
Her incredible repertoire of ragas sees to it that she rarely repeats a raga at two consecutive concerts. Dhondutai knows specialty Raag creations made not just by Alladiya Khan but also Kesarbai Kerkar. At 86, Dhondutai is saluted not just for her musical contributions, but also for her quality as a performing artist.
Awards and recognition
Dhondutai has been awarded the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 1990. She also has been invited to the "Surashri Kesarbai Kerkar Sangeet Sammelan" since its beginnings, she sings last at the concert.
Books
Namita Devidayal's book "The Music Room" chronicles a significant part of Dhondutai's life, music and career. Namita is one of Dhondutai's students and learned from her over a period of 25 years. The book talks about the life and music of Alladiya Khan, Kesarbai Kerkar and Dhondutai.
Dhondutai Kulkarni - National Programme
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