Biography of "Bhaskarbuva Bakhle"

(October 17, 1869 - April 8, 1922)

It will not be an exaggeration to say that both Hindus and Muslims consider Pandit Bhaskarbuva Bakhle as a great artist. He was a unique singer of his time. His songs were replete with enthusiasm and romanticism. He brought classical music within the reach of a layman by adopting a gay and playful style and gave stage music the status of classical music.

Bhaskarbuva was born on October 17, 1869, at Kathor in Baroda province. Inspite of being admitted into a Sanskrit school, his desire to learn singing was cultivated in his childhood. On the advice of his teacher, Bhaskar began his education in music under an eminent singer Vishnubuva Pingle. Bhaskarbuva joined the Kirloskar Drama Company of Maharashtra. This gave him an opportunity to perfect his singing. But his association with the company did not last long. Then he went to Baroda to imbibe education in singing from Faiji Mohammad Khan. He opened 'Bharat Gayan Samaj School in Pune. Bhaskarbuva died on April 8, 1922.