My Compelling Story

Rajendra Kulkarni hails from the land of Hindustani musical masters. He was born in the beautiful city of Belgaum in 1961. His father, Shri Bhagawantarao is a radio artist himself, playing the flute as well as violin and is closely connected with the art circle of Belgaum. Rajendra is the sixth of his four brothers and two sisters, all of whom are well-placed in their respective walks of life. The whole family is culturally rich. Currently based out of Pune, Rajendra developed an interest in the flute at an early age of six. Rajendra excelled throughout his academic life and applied for higher education in engineering. At this stage, he realised that his real passion is classical music. Hence, he gave up engineering and opted for BSc instead and was also declared The Best Student of the Year. Rajendra’s family is that of art lovers and connoisseurs. Right from his childhood, he kept listening to the melodious songs and poems sung by his mother. His elder sister, Meenatai, used to learn Hindustani classical vocal music at home under the guidance of a visiting guru. His first Guru and father, Shri Bhagawantarao, an eminent flautist himself, used to play ragas and mother used to sing light music. In this musical atmosphere, Rajendra’s interest in music grew by leaps and bounds. Balasaheb’s friends used to visit the house regularly to discuss classical music. This atmosphere introduced Rajendra into the theoretical aspects of classical music. All the above factors created a cordial atmosphere for Rajendra to grow up as a flautist. Late Shri Mammulal Sangawkar was a famous tabla player. He had accompanied great masters like Amir Khan, Bade Gulam Ali Khan, Pt Bhimsen Joshi, and Balgandharva. Mammulal used to stay at Balasaheb’s house. Naturally, this provided a golden opportunity for Rajendra to have deep insights over the intricacies of tabla rhythms used in instrument performance. Very soon after this, Rajendra came in contact with his second guru, Pt Narayanrao Patwardhan, the then-Vice President of the Gandharva Mahawidyalay, Delhi, and a reputed vocalist. Rajendra got deep insights into classical music through discussions with him. Continuous devoted practice, committed flute performances in numerous concerts and a deep contemplation of the Hindustani classical music have together ensured that Rajendra has blossomed into an outstanding flautist.