Caption: Gangotri, the house where legendary Hindustani vocalist Gangubai Hangal was born, in shambles Dharwad: Dharwad, known as a hub of music, literature, education and art, is eagerly awaiting the restoration of Gangotri, which honours the legacy of legendary Hindustani vocalist Gangubai Hangal. Born in Dharwad and having spent her childhood in Shukravarpet, Gangubai’s connection to the city remained strong even after she moved away. Back in 2007-08, the then deputy commissioner, MS Srikar, played a pivotal role in renovating the house where Gangubai was born. It was converted into a museum-cum-music school with Rs 25 lakh sanctioned by the then finance minister BS Yediyurappa. Of this, Rs 15 lakh was spent on restoring the house, including plastering it and relaying the floor and roof. The restored home was named Gangotri.The house was intended to serve as a museum to celebrate Gangubai’s life and achievements, and a music school. Efforts were made to retain its original charm, avoiding modern elements such as ceramic tiles and cement walls. The main hall and two adjacent rooms were adorned with photographs and informative panels featuring Gangubai’s journey and achievements, while also offering insights into the world of Hindustani classical music, including gharanas, ragas, maestros, and instruments. The drawing room was used for music classes, and photographer Shashi Sali was entrusted with the responsibility of curating the photographs and charts to be displayed.However, because of a lack of maintenance over the years, the house has fallen into a state of disrepair.This house, where Gangubai was born on March 5, 1912, held deep sentimental value to the singer. She spent her early years in this small rented house before moving to Hubballi in 1928. Throughout her lifetime, she cherished her childhood memories and often spoke fondly of her mother, Ambabai, a Carnatic musician who chose to give up her style of music to ensure that Gangubai, who was learning Hindustani music, wasn’t influenced by Carnatic music.The inauguration of Gangotri was an emotional event for the then 96-year-old Gangubai, who was moved by the recollection of her early years.Hope rekindlesDeputy commissioner Divya Prabhu, who visited Gangotri earlier this week, promised to make efforts to revive it as a school of music and fine arts. She also promised to secure additional funding from the govt as well as corporate houses under CSR initiatives. Divya said the administration would discuss with the owners of neighbouring buildings the possibility of acquiring their properties, to construct a larger facility to expand Gangotri’s activities.
