Arun Kashalkar


Pandit Arun Kashalkar is an Indian classical vocalist. He is a teacher to many students and performs in India and abroad. His singing is a blend of Gwalior, Jaipur and Agra styles, with the emphasis on Agra.

Training

Arun Kashalkar first learnt music from his father, N. D. Kashalkar, a lawyer and musicologist. He then studied under D.V. Panke and Rajabhau Kogje.
Arun also received training from Ram Marathe, Gajananrao Joshi and Babanrao Haldankar.

As a vocalist

Arun's singing has an emphasis on the lively and rhythm-oriented style of the Agra gharana. His performances are known for the essence of Agra with his use of 'nomtom', 'bols', 'taans' with great force and boundless creativity. He has composed over 150 bandishes in his book 'Swar Archana' under the pseudonym of 'Rasdaas'. He has performed all over India, as well as Singapore and the USA.

As a guru

Arun's disciples include Mukul Kulkarni,. Ravindra Parchure is his prominent disciple who learnt from him in traditional Guru-Shishya style of learning. He also visits Singapore where he performs and gives workshops at the Temple of Fine Arts.

Awards