Department of Posts (Ministry of Communications) has issued a commemorative postage stamp in honor of Pandit Chatur Lal, renowned tabla maestro and the first Indian percussionist to introduce tabla to Western audiences in the 1950s. This release coincides with his centenary year, reviving recognition for his pioneering contributions to Indian and global music.
About Pandit Chatur Lal
- Birthplace: Udaipur, Rajasthan
- Family background: Born into a family of court musicians and farmers.
- Musical training:
- Learned tabla under Ustad Abdul Hafiz Ahmed Khan.
- Ustad Abdul Hafiz was a disciple of Jehangir Khan, the court musician of Indore, trained in Farukhabad and Lucknow gharanas (styles).
- Short yet influential life: Passed away in 1965 at the young age of 40, leaving an unparalleled mark on both Indian classical music and global musical exchanges.
Key Associations:
- Collaborated with global and Indian legends such as: Pandit Ravi Shankar and Yehudi Menuhin
- Earned global acclaim for his expressive and innovative tabla style.
Legacy & Contributions
Pioneer in Popularizing Tabla Internationally:
- First Indian percussionist to introduce tabla to Western audiences in the 1950s, long before its global popularity.
Bridging Musical Cultures:
- Played a key role in blending Indian classical rhythms with Western music, laying foundation for Indo-jazz fusion bands like Shakti.
Role of Yehudi Menuhin
- In 1952, legendary violinist Yehudi Menuhin attended a private concert featuring Ravi Shankar and Chatur Lal in India.
- Menuhin’s admiration led to Chatur Lal’s participation in recording the first-ever LP of Indian classical music for Western audiences in 1955 (produced for Angel Records/EMI with Ali Akbar Khan).
Awards & Recognitions
- Oscar Nomination (1957): First Indian percussionist nominated at Oscars for his work in Canadian short film “A Chairy Tale” (1957).
- Special BAFTA Award: Honored with a Special BAFTA Award for his artistic contributions.
- Royal Performance (1962): Performed at Rashtrapati Bhawan for Queen Elizabeth II during her visit to India.