One of India's premier institutions for classical music, Bhatkhande Sanskriti Vishwavidyalaya in Lucknow, boasts a rich history spanning nearly a century, marked by significant name changes that reflect its evolving legacy and academic expansion.
The Foundational Vision of Pandit Bhatkhande
The institute's story is inextricably linked to Pandit Vishnu Narayan Bhatkhande, a pioneering musicologist and scholar. He is credited with transforming Hindustani classical music from an oral tradition into a structured academic discipline. His most notable theoretical contribution was the classification of the vast repertoire of ragas into 10 fundamental scales or Thaats: Bilawal, Kalyan, Khamaj, Bhairav, Poorvi, Marwa, Kafi, Asavari, Bhairavi, and Todi.
Beyond theory, Bhatkhande was instrumental in developing a standardized curriculum, making systematic music education accessible beyond the confines of traditional gharanas. His efforts led to the establishment of music colleges not only in Lucknow but also in Gwalior and Baroda.
A Timeline of Transformation and Renaming
The institution's journey began in 1926 when it was founded as the 'Marris College of Music'. This name honored Sir William Marris, the then Governor of the United Provinces, who showed keen interest in its establishment during the fourth All India Music Conference. Pandit Bhatkhande, with support from local patrons like Rai Umanath Bali, played the key role in conceptualizing and setting up the college.
Four decades later, a major shift occurred. On March 26, 1966, the Uttar Pradesh government brought the college under its control and rightfully renamed it Bhatkhande College of Hindustani Music after its visionary founder.
The institute's stature was further elevated when, at the state government's request, the Government of India issued a notification on October 24, 2000, declaring it a 'Deemed University'. The most recent rebranding happened in June 2022, when it was renamed Bhatkhande Sanskriti Vishwavidyalaya. This change signified its broader commitment to encompassing various art forms beyond music.
A Legacy of Structured Music Education
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Mandavi Singh emphasizes the university's glorious history and exemplary achievements. The institution stands as a living testament to Pandit Bhatkhande's revolutionary work. He successfully architected a framework that allowed Hindustani classical music to be taught, preserved, and propagated through formal education, ensuring its longevity and reach for generations to come.
Today, Bhatkhande Sanskriti Vishwavidyalaya continues to be a cornerstone of India's cultural education, nurturing artists and scholars while proudly carrying forward the legacy of its founder.
