TANSEN
Tansen,
the legendary musician was born in Gwalior in 1506. It was only after
the age of 5 that Tansen showed any musical talent. It was his Guru Hari
Dasa who recognised his hidden talents as a musician.
Tansen
was one among the nine gems in the court of Emperor
Akbar. He was also a poet, who composed many couplets. When Tansen was
in the court of Akbar, he started to compose new ragas or melodies based
on classical Indian music. He is believed to be the father of Hindustani
Music. His 'Sangeeta Sara' and 'Rajmala' are important documents on music.
He popularised the 'Drupad' style of music.
He was
such a great artist that he became a legend in his own times. His talent
was recognised early and it was the ruler of Gwalior who conferred upon
the maestro the honorific title 'Tansen'.
He died in 1589, and was buried according to his
wishes near the grave of his mentor, Ghaus.
A national
music festival known as 'Tansen Sangeet
Sammelan' is held every year in
December, near the tomb of Tansen at Behat as a mark of respect to his
memory.
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