Rajeev Taranath - A Lifestory

Rajeev Taranath was a distinguished sarod maestro of the Senia Maihar Gharana, known for his imaginative power, technical brilliance, and deep emotional expression. Initially trained in vocal music, he later embraced the sarod under the guidance of Ustad Ali Akbar Khan, and he also received mentorship from Pandit Ravi Shankar and Vidushi Annapurna Devi. A scholar-musician, he earned a doctoral degree in literature and worked as a professor before fully dedicating himself to music. Recognized for pioneering Hindustani instrumental music in South India, he performed globally and taught at esteemed institutions like the Ali Akbar College of Music and California Institute of the Arts. Honored with the Padma Shri (2019) and Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (1999-2000), along with multiple Karnataka state awards, he remained humble and dedicated to music until his final days, leaving behind an enduring legacy in Indian classical music.