Pune: Renowned Classical Singer Dr. Prabha Atre Passes Away at 91
Pune, 13th January 2024: The world of Indian classical music mourns the loss of the legendary Dr. Prabha Atre, a multifaceted talent known for her exceptional contributions as a singer, music composer, writer, professor, and comedian. Dr. Atre, aged 91, breathed her last in Pune after suffering a heart attack while sleeping at her residence.
A veteran of the Kirana Gharana, Dr. Prabha Atre’s musical journey was marked by unparalleled mastery in various genres, including ‘Khyal,’ ‘Thumri,’ ‘Dadra,’ ‘Ghazal,’ ‘Ukrainian Sangeet,’ ‘Natya Sangeet,’ ‘Bhajan,’ and ‘Bhav Sangeet.’ Her impact extended globally, playing a pivotal role in spreading Indian classical music worldwide.
Notable for her three prestigious awards – Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Vibhushan – Dr. Prabha Atre was celebrated for her unique compositions, such as ‘Jagu Main Sari Raina’ in Maru Bihag, ‘Tan Man Dhan’ in Kalavati, and ‘Nand Nandan’ in Kirwani, which resonate with music lovers to this day.
The maestro’s sudden demise has left a void in the world of music. The funeral is scheduled for Tuesday (January 16), with her USA-based niece expected to arrive in Pune. Prasad Bhadsawle of Swaramayi Gurukul Sanstha will announce the time for the final viewing.
Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed his grief, acknowledging Dr. Prabha Atre’s profound impact on classical music. He praised her innovative singing style, which went beyond prescribed repertoires, and highlighted her commitment to knowledge-sharing, evident in her writings. Fadnavis recognized her with three prestigious awards and emphasized her role in nurturing new talent.
Dr. Prabha Atre’s legacy extends beyond her musical prowess; she was a dedicated educator, author, and a pivotal figure in Sawai Gandharva Bhimsen festival. Her unparalleled contributions to Indian classical music will be remembered, and she leaves behind a profound imprint on the hearts of music enthusiasts.
Dr Prabha Atre, born to Abasaheb and Indirabai Atre in Pune, initially did not plan to pursue a career in music, despite her early interest in the art alongside her sister, Usha. However, fate took a musical turn when, at the age of eight, Indirabai’s health prompted her to take classical music lessons for therapeutic benefits, and Prabha found herself inspired to explore the world of classical music.
Following the Guru-shishya tradition, Prabha Atre received her classical music training from Sureshbabu Mane and Hirabai Badodekar, both eminent figures from the Kirana gharana. She credited Amir Khan for khyal and Bade Ghulam Ali Khan for thumri as significant influences on her gayaki. Additionally, she acquired formal training in the Kathak dance style.
While pursuing her musical journey, Prabha Atre also obtained a Bachelor of Science degree from Fergusson College in Pune. Later, she pursued an LL.B. from the University of Pune Law College. Her academic pursuits extended to Gandharva Mahavidyalaya Mandal (Sangeet Alankar – Master of Music), Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance, London (Western Music Theory Grade-IV), and eventually culminated in a Ph.D. in music. Her doctoral thesis, titled “Sargam,” focused on the application of sol-fa notes (sargam) in Indian classical music.
