Varanasi is one of the world's oldest epicenters of art and learning. Recognized as a UNESCO City of Music, it has birthed the legendary 'Benaras Gharana'—a unique school of music that emphasizes spirituality and precision. The city's narrow lanes resonate with the sound of Tabla, Sitar, and Shehnai practice sessions.
A Legacy of Maestros
The city's cultural heritage is guarded by families who have practiced their art for generations. From the mystic poetry of Kabir to the classical notes of the Sarangi, Kashi remains a global hub for serious students of culture.
Cultural Icons of Benares
- Ustad Bismillah Khan: The legendary Shehnai maestro who brought a folk instrument to the global classical stage.
- Pandit Ravi Shankar: The world-renowned Sitarist was born and nurtured in the musical soil of Banaras.
- Girija Devi: The 'Queen of Thumri', who preserved the semi-classical vocal traditions of the region.
- Kabir Chaura: A neighborhood famous as the home of many great Tabla and Kathak artists.
Explore Music & Cultural Heritage (6)
Ustad Bismillah Khan
Bismillah Khan was born in Bhirung Raut Ki Gali at Dumrao, Bihar, in 1913 to Paigambar Khan and Mitthan into the family of musicians. Khan was bestow...
Read More
Pandit Krishna Maharaj
Pandit Kishan Maharaj, a famous Indian tabla player, born at 3rd September 1923 in the Kabir Chaura, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. He was born at the propi...
Read More
Rajan Sajan Mishra
Rajan and Sajan Mishra (both are bothers), a khyal style singer of the Indian classical music. Khyal style singing is considered as the 300 years old ...
Read More
Girija Devi
Girija Devi is a senior and renowned Indian female classical vocalist, who represents the Banaras Gharana of singers. Born on 8 May 1929 in the Indian...
Read More
Pandit Chhannulal Mishra
Pandit Chhannulal Mishra (Born 3 August 1936) is a Hindustani classical singer from Banaras, a noted exponent of the Kirana gharana (school) of the Hi...
Read More
Pt. Ravi Shankar
Ravi Shankar had an interesting childhood. He was born on April 7, 1920, in Benares (a.k.a. Varanasi, or Kashi) into a Bengali Brahmin community...
Read More