Shrikrishna Narayan Ratanjankar, Indian scholar and teacher of Hindustani classical music (d. 1974)

Shrikrishna Narayan Ratanjankar: A Luminary of Hindustani Classical Music and Education

Shrikrishna Narayan Ratanjankar, affectionately known as S. N. Ratanjankar, was a profoundly distinguished scholar, erudite musicologist, and revered teacher of Hindustani classical music. Born at the stroke of midnight on 31 December 1899, marking the very beginning of the 20th century, and passing away on 14 February 1974, his life was dedicated to the preservation, systematic study, and propagation of Indian classical music. He was particularly renowned for his deep roots in the Agra gharana, a prominent vocal tradition known for its powerful and soulful renditions, intricate rhythmic patterns, and distinctive gayaki (style of singing).

Illustrious Gurus and the Synthesis of Tradition and Scholarship

Ratanjankar's musical foundation was meticulously crafted under the guidance of two monumental figures in Hindustani classical music, making him a rare torchbearer of a rich dual lineage. He was the foremost and most dedicated disciple of Pandit Vishnu Narayan Bhatkhande (1860–1936), the pioneering musicologist responsible for revolutionizing Hindustani classical music. Bhatkhande embarked on an monumental task of collecting, classifying, and systematizing ragas, developing a widely accepted notation system, and establishing formal music education institutions. From Bhatkhande, Ratanjankar inherited a rigorous academic approach, critical analytical skills, and a vision for structured music pedagogy. Complementing this scholarly training, he also received extensive practical tutelage from Ustad Faiyaz Khan (1886–1950), the legendary vocalist and doyen of the Agra gharana, famously bestowed with the title 'Aftab-e-Mousiqui' (The Sun of Music). This unique dual tutelage provided Ratanjankar with an unparalleled synthesis of profound scholarly insight and masterful practical performance, allowing him to embody the essence of the Agra gharana's intricate vocal artistry alongside a systematized understanding of music theory.

A Pillar of Music Education: Leading Bhatkhande Music Institute

S. N. Ratanjankar's leadership played an indispensable role in the evolution of institutional music education in India. For many years, he served as the principal of the prestigious Bhatkhande Music Institute (originally Bhatkande Sangeet Sansthan) in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. This institution, established by his guru Bhatkhande, was a pioneering effort to move music education from solely the traditional guru-shishya parampara (teacher-disciple tradition) to a more structured, curriculum-based academic setting. Under Ratanjankar's meticulous guidance and visionary leadership, the institute flourished, transforming into a premier center for advanced research, performance, and pedagogy in Hindustani classical music, setting a benchmark for music universities across the nation.

Enduring Legacy and Prolific Contributions

As an influential principal and an inspiring teacher, S. N. Ratanjankar molded and mentored a multitude of students who later became celebrated names in the field of music, carrying forward his multifaceted legacy. His renowned disciples include eminent vocalists and scholars such as Sumati Mutatkar, K. G. Ginde, Chidanand Nagarkar, and C. R. Vyas, among many others, who propagated his teachings and unique musical blend. Beyond his extensive teaching and administrative roles, Ratanjankar was also a prolific composer, credited with writing numerous bandishes (fixed compositions in a raga) under the pen name 'Sujaan'. Furthermore, he was a respected author of several invaluable musicological texts, including his extensive 'Abhinava Geetanjali' series, which continue to enlighten students and researchers alike on the nuances of Hindustani classical music. His life's work solidified his position as one of the 20th century's most influential figures in Indian classical music, effectively bridging the venerable traditions of gharanas with the demands of modern academic education.

Frequently Asked Questions About S. N. Ratanjankar

Who was Shrikrishna Narayan Ratanjankar?

Shrikrishna Narayan Ratanjankar, commonly known as S. N. Ratanjankar, was a distinguished Indian musicologist, scholar, teacher, and composer of Hindustani classical music. He was a pivotal figure in the 20th century, known for his significant contributions to formalizing music education and preserving traditional knowledge.

Which gharana did S. N. Ratanjankar primarily represent?

He was primarily associated with the Agra gharana, one of the most prominent vocal traditions in Hindustani classical music, known for its unique style and repertoire that emphasizes strong vocal delivery and rhythmic complexity.

Who were S. N. Ratanjankar's most influential gurus?

His two most significant teachers were Pandit Vishnu Narayan Bhatkhande, the pioneering musicologist who systematized Hindustani music, and Ustad Faiyaz Khan, the legendary vocalist and doyen of the Agra gharana.

What was S. N. Ratanjankar's key role at Bhatkhande Music Institute?

S. N. Ratanjankar served for many years as the principal of the prestigious Bhatkhande Music Institute (Bhatkande Sangeet Sansthan) in Lucknow, where he played a crucial role in developing and standardizing the curriculum for Hindustani classical music education.

Who are some of S. N. Ratanjankar's notable disciples?

Among his many esteemed students were prominent figures in Hindustani classical music such as Sumati Mutatkar, K. G. Ginde, Chidanand Nagarkar, and C. R. Vyas, who further propagated his teachings and musical legacy across India.

What was S. N. Ratanjankar's contribution as a composer?

As a composer, S. N. Ratanjankar created numerous bandishes (compositions) in various ragas under his pen name 'Sujaan'. His compositions are still widely performed and studied in Hindustani classical music.