The Timeless Symphony of Tansen Samaroh: A Celebration of the 100th Edition

Madhya Pradesh, December 5, 2024: Classical music, with its profound melodies, has the unique ability to transcend time and touch the soul. In India, classical music forms the backbone of our rich cultural heritage, weaving together history, spirituality, and artistry. This is more evident in Madhya Pradesh, a state that has nurtured and celebrated this art form for centuries. This is the home of the prestigious Tansen Samaroh, a festival that has been echoing the legacy of Indian classical music since 1924. Madhya Pradesh Tourism is proud to showcase the state’s vibrant musical tapestry. Gwalior, a city with a long history of artistic patronage, has been designated as a Creative City of Music by the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN). This prestigious recognition underscores Gwalior’s immense contribution to Hindustani classical music.

Tansen Samaroh or Tansen Sangeet Samaroh (Hindi: तानसेन समारोह) is celebrated every year in the month of December in Behat village of Gwalior district, Madhya Pradesh.  It is a 4-day musical extravaganza. Artists and music lovers from all over the world gather here to pay tribute to the Great Indian Musical Maestro Tansen. The event is organized near the tomb of Tansen by Ustad Alauddin Khan Kala Evam Sangeet Academy, under the department of culture, Government of Madhya Pradesh.  Artists from all over India are invited to deliver vocal and instrumental performances. Tansen Samaroh was originally a local festival but it was at the initiative of BV Keskar, who was Union Minister for Information and broadcasting between 1952 and 1962, that Tansen Samaroh was turned into a popular national music festival.

This year, 2024, the centenary celebration of the Tansen Samaroh promises to be a grand affair, with even more elaborate performances, special tributes, and an unforgettable experience for attendees. The milestone edition is not just a celebration of the past but also a vision for the future of Indian classical music, as it continues to inspire and enchant new generations.

In order to celebrate the 100th edition of the Tansen Samaroh, ceremonies will be held in several cities of Incredible India. A movie based on the legendary musician Tansen will also be featured for seven days in Bhopal. Recognized artists from more than 20 countries will perform in the Indian embassies to mark this day and an attempt to create a World Record is also planned for the year.

Visitors to this special edition will also have the opportunity to connect with the story of Mian Tansen through dance performances, documentaries, dialogues and exhibitions. . It pays tribute to Miyan Tansen, one of the nine jewels of Emperor Akbar’s court and one of the most legendary figures in Hindustani classical music. Born in Gwalior, Tansen’s contributions to Indian music, particularly his creation of various ragas, have been monumental. The festival, held near the Samadhi of Miyan Tansen, is a grand showcase of classical music and brings together legendary artists from across the country. They will also be able to explore Gwalior’s many attractions, from the majestic Gwalior Fort to the serene Sas Bahu Temples, and indulge in the local culture, history, and cuisine. Whether staying in a luxury hotel or a charming homestay, Gwalior offers a wide range of accommodation options as well that cater to all preferences.

Music Gharana from Madhya Pradesh: The Melodic Heart of India: Madhya Pradesh, often called the Heart of India, is a land steeped in musical tradition. Its musical legacy boasts legendary figures as it is home to the four largest gharana of Indian classical music – Maihar Gharana, Gwalior Gharana, Senia Gharana and Indore Gharana. Among the most renowned are the Gwalior Gharana, known for its mastery in khayal singing, and the Maihar Gharana, popularized by legendary artists like Ustad Allauddin Khan. These gharanas have not only produced maestros but have also ensured that classical music remains an integral part of the region’s cultural identity. The Maihar gharana has given the world stalwarts like sitar maestro Ravi Shankar, flute maestro Hariprasad Chaurasia and sarod maestro Alauddin Khan. Gwalior gharana has produced great artists like Veena Sahasrabuddhe, Malini Rajurkar, DV Paluskar, Kumar Gandharva and Mukul Shivputra.

Principal Secretary of Tourism and Culture and Managing Director of the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board Shri Sheo Shekhar Shukla said Gwalior’s designation as a UNESCO Creative City of Music is a testament to Madhya Pradesh’s rich musical heritage. Madhya Pradesh offers a unique travel experience for music lovers. Shri  Shukla added Madhya Pradesh is an Offbeat Multispecialty Destination of First Choice and every city in the state boasts a unique musical identity, and four largest music gharana enriching the state’s diverse soundscape. Experience the Music of Madhya Pradesh!

A Tapestry of Sounds: The state is that there are many music festivals held here that still honour composers and celebrate music. Some of the famous festivals include the Allauddin Khan Sangeet Samaroh, a three-day music festival held in the city of Maihar, dedicated to Ustad Alauddin Khan, the head of the Maihar Gharana, and the Amir Khan Mahotsav, held in Indore which is dedicated to the founder of Indore gharana Ustad Amir Khan.  Sangeet Prasang, Vishwa Yog Evam Sangeet Diwas, Ye Shaam Mastani, Hriday Drishyam, The Great Indian Film and Literature Festival (GIFLIF) in Bhopal. Tansen Music Festival is organized near Tansen’s Samadhi in Gwalior in this year, 2024, marks the centenary celebration of the Tansen Samaroh. The 100th edition promises a grand affair, with even more elaborate performances, special tributes, and an unforgettable experience for attendees. The milestone edition is not just a celebration of the past but also a vision for the future of Indian classical music, as it continues to inspire and enchant new generations. In order to celebrate the 100th edition of the Tansen Samaroh, ceremonies will be held in several cities of Incredible India. A movie based on the legendary musician Tansen will also be featured for seven days in Bhopal. Recognized artists from more than 20 countries will perform in the Indian embassies to mark this day and an attempt to create a World Record is also planned for the year.

As the stage is set for the 100th edition of the Tansen Samaroh, Gwalior once again prepares to welcome the world to witness the timeless magic of classical music. This festival is not just an event; it is a reminder of the enduring legacy of music that connects the past with the present, promising to resonate for centuries to come.

Gwalior Fort, Gwalior

This magnificent fortress is one of the most beautiful structures in India. Renowned for its vibrant colors and rich history, it showcases the influence of Rajput, Tomar, Mughal, Maratha, Sikh, and Jain cultures. Towering over the city of Gwalior, this majestic monument is a testament to the artistic prowess of Tomars, and has seen over a thousand-year history, reflected in its multicultural architectural legacy. The Moti Mahal or Moti Palace of Gwalior built in 1825 by the Scindia ruler Maharaja Shrimant Daulat Rao Scindia of Gwalior in a Hindu architectural style is one of the main buildings of Gwalior’s history. Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board is putting efforts to transform this heritage site into a Museum of Music where the rich culture of Gwalior can be revisited. The project is setting its sights on transforming the museum into the most visited public space in Gwalior.

The Ministry of Culture (MoC) has approved the grant for the Museum of Music. The proposals sent by the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board for the Museum of Music are approved for financial assistance recommended by the Expert Committee under the Museum Grant Scheme. The Museum will showcase antique musical instruments for music and art lovers.

Madhya Pradesh has been honored with the prestigious “Best Tourism State of the Year” award at the Travel and Tourism Conclave and Awards in New Delhi. Rich in history, culture, and housing some of the best attractions in the country, Madhya Pradesh is a must visit for every explorer Gwalior celebrates its musical heritage through Tansen Samaroh, a festival dedicated to Tansen’s legacy. Bhopal, the capital city, hosts events like the Lokrang Festival, showcasing the state’s diverse folk and tribal music. According to reports, Shri Shukla, the senior secretary for tourism and managing director of the MP Tourism Board, expressed how the award would further accelerate the state’s efforts to enhance its tourism experience. The main goal is to establish Madhya Pradesh as a leading global tourist destination. Madhya Pradesh, which is often referred to as the “Heart of India,” offers the perfect blend of cultural treasures. Known for its central location, the state boasts some of India’s most significant historical and natural sites. Here are a few places that you must explore.

The ‘National Tansen Samman’ is a musical award conferred to the exponents

Author: Jaun Shahi

Journalist, Sub-Editor, Travellers’ World Jaun is a soft-spoken and gentle soul who thrives as a Journalist with his exceptional observation skills and an eye for intricate details. He is a true multitasker who efficiently handles various tasks and always brings a professional approach to everything he does. His genuine team spirit makes him an integral part of the TW family, as he consistently collaborates and supports his colleagues.