Pune: Dnyaneshwar Takalkar, the eminent Hindustani vocalist and Pandit Bhimsen Joshi's taal accompanist for four decades, passed away on Sunday in a city hospital after a brief illness. He was 99.
Better known as Mauli due to his warkari lineage, Takalkar performed at the Sawai Gandharva Bhimsen Mahotsav until last year. He shared the stage with four generations of singers, starting with the legendary Bal Gandharva.
Legacy and Tributes
"We have lost a member of Panditji's extended family," said Shriniwas, Bhimsen's son, in a press release. Anand Bhate, a disciple of Panditji, expressed sorrow and noted that they had hoped Takalkar would celebrate his 100th birthday next April.
"He invented new patterns in taal accompaniment. His devotion to God kept him healthy and stress-free. He also connected well with the younger generation. His enthusiasm and energy were electrifying," Bhate added.
Life and Contributions
Takalkar never accepted bouquets and felicitations during the Sawai festival. He would quietly exit the stage before the chief guest could begin honoring other artists.
Born on April 11, 1927, in Pune, Takalkar started his taal recital at Shri Siddheshwar Praasaadik Bhajani Mandal. He took lessons from Pandurangbuwa Gujar and Madhavbuwa Sukale in mrudung and pakhawaj, respectively.
Anand Deshmukh, veteran announcer at the Sawai festival, highlighted Takalkar's complete devotion to God and Bhimsen. "He knew hundreds of ovis, a form of poetry by sants and common folk," he added.
Veteran compere Sudhir Gadgil, who worked with Takalkar for the Santwani programme with Panditji for 25 years, remembered him fondly: "Mauli was always smiling, never complained, and did not brag."
