Sharan Rani Backliwal: A Legendary Indian Classical Sarod Player and Music Scholar

A Musical Icon and Cultural Ambassador

Sharan Rani Backliwal, a renowned Indian classical sarod player and music scholar, left an indelible mark on the world of music. Her remarkable private collection of 379 musical instruments, spanning from the 15th to the 19th century, is now showcased at the Sharan Rani Backliwal Gallery of Musical Instruments at the National Museum, New Delhi.

Early Life and Training

Born on April 9, 1929, in Old Delhi, Sharan Rani was part of a conservative Hindu family of well-known businessmen and educationists. Despite facing intense familial opposition, she pursued her passion for music, learning to play the sarod from the esteemed masters, Allauddin Khan and his son Ali Akbar Khan. She also mastered the Kathak form of classical Indian dance under Achhan Maharaj and Manipuri dance from Nabha Kumar Sinha.

Musical Career

Sharan Rani's illustrious music career spanned over seven decades, with her sarod recitals captivating audiences on the concert stage in India and globally. She was one of the first Indian classical musicians to record for UNESCO and release musical recordings with prominent record companies in the United States, Britain, and France.

Awards and Honors

India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, called her the Cultural Ambassador of India. Dr. Zakir Husain, a former President of India, praised her, saying, "Sharan Rani has achieved perfection in music. She will therefore get the love of the entire world." Noted musician Yehudi Menuhin described her as "a great artiste."

Legacy

Sharan Rani Backliwal's contribution to Indian classical music is immeasurable. She worked tirelessly to preserve and promote the rich Dhrupad tradition, which was slowly fading away. Her commitment to music education and cultural exchange has inspired generations of musicians, scholars, and music enthusiasts alike.

Instrumental Legacy: The Sharan Rani Backliwal Gallery

The Sharan Rani Backliwal Gallery of Musical Instruments at the National Museum, New Delhi, is a testament to her dedication to preserving India's rich cultural heritage. The gallery showcases her extensive collection of 379 musical instruments, ranging from the 15th to the 19th century, providing a unique insight into India's musical evolution.

Personal Milestones and Key Life Events

• 1953: Completed her M.A. from Delhi University, studying at Indraprastha College for Women.
• Recorded for UNESCO, becoming one of the first Indian classical musicians to do so.
• Released musical recordings with prominent record companies in the United States, Britain, and France.
• Performed extensively on the concert stage in India and globally, spreading Indian classical music.

Trivia and Fun Facts

• Sharan Rani Backliwal's music career spanned over seven decades, making her one of the longest-performing Indian classical musicians.
• She was one of the first women to break into the male-dominated world of Indian classical music.
• Her private collection of musical instruments is one of the largest and most diverse in the world.

Conclusion

Sharan Rani Backliwal's remarkable life and achievements serve as an inspiration to aspiring musicians, scholars, and music enthusiasts. Her legacy continues to enrich Indian classical music, promoting cultural exchange, and preserving India's rich cultural heritage.