Renowned classical singer and Padma Vibhushan awardee Dr. Prabha Atre passed away at 92 due to cardiac arrest in Pune. A celebrated figure in Hindustani classical music, particularly the Kirana Gharana, Atre’s demise marks the end of an era. She received all three Padma awards, reflecting her immense contribution to Indian music.
A Life Devoted to Music
Born on September 13, 1932, in Pune, Atre’s journey into music was somewhat serendipitous. Initially inspired by her mother’s music lessons, Atre, along with her sister Usha, embraced the art form. Despite not planning a music career initially, her passion for classical music was undeniable.
A Rich Legacy
Atre’s education in music was rooted in the Guru-shishya tradition, studying under Sureshbabu Mane and Hirabai Badodekar. She also acknowledged the influence of Amir Khan and Bade Ghulam Ali Khan on her singing style. Her repertoire included Khayal and Thumri, genres she mastered over decades.
Academic and Musical Achievements
Atre’s academic journey was as impressive as her musical one. She held a Bachelor of Science degree from Fergusson College and an LL.B. from the University of Pune Law College. She also studied Western Music Theory at the Trinity Laban Conservatoire in London and earned a PhD in music. Her thesis, ‘Sargam’, explored the use of sol-fa notes in Indian classical music.
The Final Note
Atre suffered a cardiac arrest in her sleep and was declared dead at Dinanath Mangeshkar Hospital. Her funeral arrangements are pending, awaiting the arrival of her family members living abroad. Dr. Prabha Atre’s passing leaves a void in the world of classical music, but her legacy continues to inspire future generations.
