UPSC Prelims 2025
Indian Art & Culture Previous Year Questions (PYQs)

Detailed Explanation:

Correct Answer: ✅ Option 4 (Lahore)

Vishnu Digambar Paluskar founded the first Gandharva Mahavidyalaya in Lahore in 1901. His objective was to make Hindustani classical music accessible to common people through formal institutional education.

✅ Statement I is Correct: The first Gandharva Mahavidyalaya was established in Lahore in 1901.

✅ Statement II is Correct: Paluskar broke the traditional gharana-based exclusivity and promoted systematic music education for all sections of society.

❌ Delhi, Gwalior and Ujjain are Incorrect: Although Gandharva Mahavidyalaya later expanded to other cities, the first institution was established in Lahore.

Short Notes: Vishnu Digambar Paluskar and Gandharva Mahavidyalaya

• Vishnu Digambar Paluskar (1872–1931) was a pioneer of Hindustani classical music.

• He founded the first Gandharva Mahavidyalaya in 1901 at Lahore.

• The institution promoted formal music education outside the hereditary gharana system.

• Paluskar played a major role in popularizing classical music among the masses.

• He standardized music teaching through structured curricula and notation.

• The Gandharva Mahavidyalaya movement later spread to many Indian cities.

• He is regarded as one of the architects of modern Hindustani music education.