Pandit Mallikarjun Mansur Rastriya Smarak

It was Nov or Dec of 1988, I was home from college, had lunch, switched on the radio which was a habit while studying. Those days All India Radio was the only station and classical music was being aired. Until then I'd never paid attention to classical music but I was smitten by the voice. Yes, It was Pandit Mallikarjun Mansur's voice. I listened to the Raaga completely. When it was over, I wished the show continued. Those few minutes ignited an interest in Hindustani music. Between then and now, I've had the chance to listen to several other Hindustani Pandits' renditions. I've loved them all yet my favorite was Pandit Mallikarjun Mansur. His husky voice has always had a calming effect. I knew the maestro was from Dharwad...

About a fortnight ago while exploring parts of Dharwad on Google Maps I stumbled upon a place marked as "Mallikarjun Mansur Memorial Museum." It was a pleasant surprise. Even though I'd passed by that street a hundred times, I didn't know about it. Well, now I knew the location and had all the time for a visit.

Sept 2, 2024. This is the house where Hindustani Maestro Pandit Mallikarjun Mansur resided. Now this house is a museum and a memorial. The Mantapa to the left, a replica of Jagatjyoti Basaveshwara's Aikya Mantapa, marks the Samadhi of Mallikarjun Mansur & Gangamma Mansur.

This is the verandah. Pandit's Tanpura, his statue and several photographs are on display.

A marble statue made during Pandit's life time.

Pandit Mansur with his son Rajashekhar Mansur at a concert.

A family portrait: Pandit Mansur with wife Gangamma & son Rajashekhar, and sister Shakuntala & daughter Lakshmi.

Adjacent to the verandah was a room which I guess was Pandit's room since his personal belongings have been kept here. Pandit was a person who lived a simple life, his time & energy was dedicated to family and music.

A set of musical instruments- Tanpura, Harmonium & Tabla -these were probably used for Pandit's daily practice.

Almost every wall of the house was covered with photos of Pandit at various events, with fellow artists and politicians. It was an humbling experience. The lady caretaker of this place has kept the place well. With her permissions I took these pictures. The lady then introduced me to Pandit's daughter who lives next door. It was an honor to meet Pandit's daughter, son-in-law, granddaughter and a granddaughter.

The memorial is being maintained by the state government. Pandit's birth anniversary (Dec 31st) and death anniversary (Sept 12th) are observed, poojas are organized here and public is welcome to attend the event.

Like my friend and Guru Karun Kumbera said- this was an enriching experience indeed.

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