Predecessors and Successors

What is the origin of Shehnai, how it became an integral part of all auspicious events and ceremonies like puja, marriage, sacred thread ceremony etc., why people from all walks of life, irrespective of cast and creed, accept it as an intrinsic part of their most special days – these are some questions that rarely raise their heads. The reason being the instrument, an inseparable part of the happy moments in the lives of people belonging to Indian subcontinent, is taken for granted. If not live, the recorded versions fulfil the need of its auspicious sound. But, as is his way of introducing classical musicians, Pandit Vijay Kichlu focused on some of these points; because the latest presentation by his Sangeet Ashram at Birla Sabhagar featured veteran shehnai exponent Ustad Ali Ahmed Hussain Khan, fondly called Ali-da.