Thursday, February 13, 2025

Master flutist redefining Indian classical music

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With the gentle touch of his fingers on the bansuri, Pandit Ronu Majumdar weaves a sonic tapestry that transcends borders and generations. Celebrated as the ‘Flute Wizard’ or ‘Flute King,’ this master flutist has redefined Indian classical music, enchanting audiences worldwide with his soul-stirring renditions. From prestigious global stages to record-breaking feats, Majumdar’s five-decade journey is a testament to passion, humility and an unwavering spiritual connection to his craft


Pandit Ronu Majumdar, often celebrated as the “Flute Wizard” or the “Flute King,” has cemented his place as a legend in the world of music, enchanting audiences across continents with the soulful magic of his bansuri. From performing at prestigious global venues to setting remarkable world records, his journey is a symphony of passion, humility and an unwavering spiritual connection to his art. In a candid conversation with The Pioneer, the maestro shared the milestones of his life—his early influences, collaborations with music legends and the profound philosophy that has shaped his career.
His tryst with music began at the tender age of six, a time when most children are merely discovering the world around them. “Music was always my passion,” he reminisces with a smile. “At first, I never thought I’d pursue it full-time. My first inspiration was my father, followed by my guru, Pandit Ravi Shankar.”
It was under the guidance of these towering figures that his love for the bansuri blossomed. By the 1970s, music had become the axis around which his world revolved, eclipsing all other pursuits. “I never imagined doing anything else. Music became my entire world,” he reflects.
Throughout his illustrious career, he has shared the stage with some of the greatest names in music, spanning Indian classical, Bollywood and even global icons. Among his most cherished collaborations are those with Pandit Ravi Shankar, Asha Bhosle, RD Burman and George Harrison of the Beatles!
One of his fondest memories involves working with George Harrison during the recording of Chants of India. “I was in his house in Britain, expecting someone as famous as George Harrison to exude grandeur,” he shares. Instead, what he encountered was humility and warmth. Harrison’s simplicity left an indelible mark on Majumdar. “He was a man who balanced his fame with an extraordinary sense of humanity. His acts of kindness, like donating to the underprivileged, taught me lessons that extended far beyond music,” he recalls.
His achievements are as vast as his repertoire. A Grammy nomination for his album Tabula Rasa, the prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademi Award and a Guinness World Record for conducting 5,378 flutists stand as shining milestones in his career. “These accolades gave me confidence and reminded me of the responsibility I carry as an artist,” he shares.
Among these, the Guinness record holds a special place in his heart. Organised under the guidance of Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, the event brought together flutists from around the globe. “We initially didn’t think we’d cross 5,000 participants. But on the day of the concert, more and more musicians joined until we hit 5,378. It was a surreal moment, a true celebration of the flute,” he says with pride.
His work in Bollywood has also been legendary, particularly his collaborations with RD Burman. “People often tell me that I’m the only flute player who has seamlessly traversed Bollywood, Hollywood and Indian classical music,” he says. From creating iconic film melodies to crafting spiritual symphonies, his versatility is unmatched.
Yet, for him, Indian classical music is more than a profession—it’s a spiritual journey. “Our music doesn’t start with high-energy beats like rock; it begins softly, allowing the soul to resonate with the notes,” he explains. His concerts are an invitation to introspection, particularly during the aalap segment, where the absence of percussion creates a meditative atmosphere. “I often encourage audiences to close their eyes and let the music take them on a journey within. Many tell me they feel a spiritual connection during my performances,” he reveals.
He has also been a pioneer in fusion music, blending Hindustani classical with Western styles. Tabula Rasa, recorded in a church in Santa Barbara, is a shining example of this endeavour. Collaborating with banjo maestro Béla Fleck, he created Radha Krishna Bela, a piece inspired by the divine love story of Radha and Krishna.
“Explaining such a deeply spiritual concept to Béla and watching him interpret it through his instrument was an incredible experience,” he recalls.
As Indian classical music evolves in an era of technology and global collaborations, he remains a staunch advocate of preserving its purity. “Traditional music must always be performed in its traditional form,” he asserts. While he embraces fusion as a creative outlet, he ensures that it remains distinct from his classical performances. “Both genres deserve respect and understanding,” he emphasises.
To him, the key to success lies in mastery. “Focus on your craft, not on success. If you excel at what you do, success will follow naturally,” he advises aspiring musicians.
For him, the flute is far more than an instrument; it is his spiritual lifeline. “I’m alive because of the flute. It gives me peace before I share that peace with the world,” he says. Every note he plays carries a sense of divine purpose. “When I strike the perfect pitch, I feel the presence of the Almighty,” he shares with reverence.
Even after nearly five decades in music, for him, shows no signs of slowing down. His upcoming album with Grammy-winner Ricky Kej promises to be another milestone in his career! “We’ve worked on two singles before, but this time, we’re creating a full album with seven to eight tracks,” he reveals. Their previous collaboration, a reimagining of the classic Babul Mora, beautifully blended tradition with modernity.
Pandit Ronu Majumdar’s story resonates like the notes of a raga, unfolding with grace and depth. His flute is not just an instrument but a sacred bridge—connecting the earthly to the divine, the artist’s soul to the hearts of his audience.

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