Ustad Allauddin Khan, the legendary sarod player, was from which of the following gharanas of music?

Maihar

The correct answer is Option (3) - Maihar

The Maihar gharana is one of the most significant and influential schools of Indian classical music, particularly renowned for its contribution to instrumental music. Ustad Allauddin Khan, the legendary sarod player, was a pivotal figure associated with this gharana.

The Maihar gharana traces its roots back to the ancient musical traditions of India and flourished under the patronage of the princely state of Maihar in present-day Madhya Pradesh. It is known for its deep focus on both instrumental and vocal music, as well as its rigorous training methodologies. Born in 1862 in Brahmanbaria, present-day Bangladesh, Ustad Allauddin Khan was a highly revered musician, composer, and teacher. He was a multi-instrumentalist proficient in several traditional Indian instruments, including the sarod, sitar, and violin. His musical genius and dedication to his art earned him the title "Baba" (father) among his disciples.

Ustad Allauddin Khan made significant contributions to Indian classical music, both as a performer and as a teacher. He played a crucial role in popularizing the sarod as a solo instrument and elevating its status in the realm of Indian classical music. His compositions are characterized by their depth, complexity, and innovation, drawing inspiration from various musical traditions. As a teacher, Ustad Allauddin Khan had an immense influence on the development of Indian classical music. He founded the Maihar gharana and established the Maihar Band, a group of musicians dedicated to preserving and propagating the musical heritage of the region. His disciples, including his son Ali Akbar Khan and daughter Annapurna Devi, went on to become renowned musicians in their own right, further enriching the legacy of the Maihar gharana.

In summary, Ustad Allauddin Khan's association with the Maihar gharana exemplifies his pivotal role in shaping the course of Indian classical music history. His contributions as a performer, composer, and teacher have left an indelible mark on the musical landscape of India and continue to inspire generations of musicians worldwide.