Top 10 Classical Singers of India
List of Top 10 classical singers of India
India’s classical music is deeply rooted in tradition and spirituality, with a rich heritage of vocal performances that span both Hindustani (North Indian) and Carnatic (South Indian) styles. These art forms are not merely a mode of entertainment but a medium to express deep emotions and connect with the divine. Classical music in India is more than just a tradition; it is a reflection of the country’s culture, history, and philosophical ethos.
1. Pandit Bhimsen Joshi (Hindustani Classical Music)
Pandit Bhimsen Joshi is considered one of the most iconic figures in Hindustani classical music. Known for his powerful and emotive voice, he was a master of the Khayal and Dhrupad forms. Bhimsen Joshi’s voice could traverse a wide range, and he brought a unique intensity to his performances. His renditions of ragas such as Yaman, Bhairav, and Miyan ki Todi were filled with such depth that they became unforgettable experiences for his listeners.
His distinctive style, characterized by an impeccable command over classical ragas, gave him a vast following across generations. One of his most famous renditions is Mile Sur Mera Tumhara, a patriotic song that resonates with listeners even today. Pandit Bhimsen Joshi’s influence is still strong in the classical world, and his voice remains an epitome of excellence in Hindustani classical music.
2. Ustad Rashid Khan (Hindustani Classical Music)
Ustad Rashid Khan is one of the leading exponents of Hindustani classical music today. A renowned vocalist of the Khayal tradition, Ustad Rashid Khan is known for his deep, soulful renditions of ragas. He hails from the Rampur-Sahaswan gharana, and his training under various legendary teachers has made him one of the most respected figures in classical music. His voice, resonant with profound expression, is known to invoke deep emotion in his listeners.
His command over the nuances of ragas, such as Bhairavi, Hamsadhwani, and Bageshree, makes him an expert in traditional classical singing. His meticulous approach to each raga, along with his improvisational skills, has earned him recognition at both national and international platforms. Ustad Rashid Khan continues to inspire upcoming generations of classical musicians with his artistry and devotion to the craft.
3. Pandit Jasraj (Hindustani Classical Music)
Pandit Jasraj was a legendary figure in Hindustani classical music, particularly known for his devotion to the Mewati gharana. Born in 1930, Jasraj’s vocal techniques blended emotion with intricate musicality, and he was renowned for his ability to carry his audience through powerful performances. His renditions of ragas like Miyan ki Todi, Yaman, and Bageshree demonstrated his extraordinary range and ability to convey emotion.
He is widely respected for his rendition of Thumris and Dhrupads, and his compositions have become an integral part of classical music. His devotion to classical traditions, combined with his innovative approach to them, earned him the highest honors in music. He also introduced the concept of Jasrangi (a unique musical combination of two ragas) to the world, further solidifying his legacy in Hindustani classical music.
4. Lata Mangeshkar (Hindustani Classical Music)
Lata Mangeshkar, though best known for her work in playback singing, was rooted in Hindustani classical music. Her early training in classical music, under the tutelage of prominent gurus such as Ustad Amanat Ali Khan and Pandit Tulsidas Sharma, gave her voice the richness and versatility that would go on to define her career.
Lata Mangeshkar’s classical base enabled her to perform beautifully rendered classical-based songs in Bollywood, with many songs showcasing ragas such as Yaman, Desh, and Bhairavi. Tracks like Ae Mere Humsafar and Teri Bindiya Re are perfect examples of her classical proficiency. Even though she was a playback singer, her understanding and command of classical music allowed her to bring authenticity to her songs, making her an enduring legend in Indian music.
5. Gangubai Hangal (Hindustani Classical Music)
Gangubai Hangal, born in 1913, was one of the most celebrated vocalists of the Kirana gharana in Hindustani classical music. She was known for her deep, expressive voice and her command over ragas. Gangubai Hangal’s contribution to Khayal and Thumri was immense, and her music was known for its purity and emotional depth.
Her rendition of ragas like Yaman, Bhairav, and Bageshree were known for their evocative nature, and she was admired for her ability to convey intense emotion through her singing. Gangubai Hangal’s contributions to classical music earned her the prestigious Padma Bhushan award in 2002, and her legacy continues to be celebrated by classical music aficionados.
6. Semmangudi Srinivasa Iyer (Carnatic Classical Music)
Semmangudi Srinivasa Iyer was one of the finest exponents of Carnatic classical music. Known for his impeccable renditions of ragas and compositions, he was a key figure in the revival and popularization of Carnatic music in the 20th century. Iyer’s training under some of the greatest masters of the time shaped him into a versatile vocalist who could seamlessly blend intricate patterns and emotional depth.
He was especially known for his renditions of ragas like Shankarabharanam, Bhairavi, and Kalyani. His mastery over the nuances of Carnatic ragas, along with his impeccable sense of rhythm, made him a towering figure in South Indian classical music. His performances had a unique spiritual quality, and his ability to interpret ragas with innovation and tradition in perfect harmony continues to be admired.
7. T.M. Krishna (Carnatic Classical Music)
T.M. Krishna is one of the leading figures in contemporary Carnatic music. Known for his bold, unconventional approach to music, Krishna has introduced a modern interpretation of traditional Carnatic music. He is recognized for his deep understanding of ragas and his ability to bring new dimensions to classical compositions, making them accessible to a younger audience while retaining their traditional essence.
Krishna’s renditions of ragas like Shankarabharanam, Todi, and Kalyani are known for their purity, while his innovative approach in integrating social issues with music has garnered him widespread acclaim. As a performer, his voice resonates with an emotional depth that makes his renditions compelling for classical music enthusiasts across the globe.
8. Ustad Amir Khan (Hindustani Classical Music)
Ustad Amir Khan was a revolutionary figure in Hindustani classical music. His contribution to Dhrupad and Khayal is unparalleled. Ustad Amir Khan’s training in the Indore gharana and his unique approach to the Gayaki Ang style of singing elevated the art form to new heights. His renditions of ragas like Bageshree, Desh, and Hamsadhwani are considered masterpieces of Indian classical music.
His singing was marked by subtle emotional nuances, and he often combined ragas with intricate improvisations, creating a meditative atmosphere during his performances. His influence continues to guide generations of classical musicians, particularly for his revolutionary contributions to the Khayal tradition.
9. S. Janaki (Carnatic Classical Music)
S. Janaki, though better known for her playback singing in South Indian cinema, was also deeply rooted in Carnatic music. Trained in classical music from an early age, Janaki’s versatility in adapting traditional Carnatic music into her playback singing made her one of the most celebrated artists in Indian music.
Her ability to fuse classical elements with film music gave rise to some unforgettable renditions. She is particularly revered for her devotional songs in Carnatic tradition, and her contributions to the South Indian music scene have earned her a special place in Indian music history.
10. Dr. L. Subramaniam (Carnatic Classical Music)
Dr. L. Subramaniam is a virtuoso violinist and a revered Carnatic classical vocalist. Known for his compositions and performances that blend Indian classical music with Western orchestral techniques, Dr. Subramaniam has made significant contributions to the global music scene. His understanding of ragas, combined with his ability to innovate while preserving tradition, has made him a pioneering figure in classical music.
His performances have a captivating quality, as he brings both emotional depth and intellectual rigor to his interpretations of ragas. His Carnatic violin playing has inspired musicians across genres, and his voice, though less frequent in performance compared to his violin playing, continues to resonate as one of the most significant in classical music.
These Are The Top 10 classical singers of India
The classical music tradition in India, both Hindustani and Carnatic, has been enriched by these exceptional singers who have devoted their lives to perfecting the art. Their voices, each unique in its own way, have brought out the true essence of Indian classical music. These maestros not only preserved the classical music tradition but also brought innovation to it, ensuring that their music transcends generations.
These singers, through their unparalleled mastery of ragas and compositions, have created an enduring legacy in the world of classical music. Their work will continue to inspire musicians and listeners alike for years to come.
