FRIDAY, JULY 05, 2024
ERWIN FONSECA
ANJUNA: Born in Maharashtra, Pandurang Shirodkar considers that State his janmabhoomi (birthplace) and Goa his karmabhoomi (place of work). His family moved to Goa when he was a child. At a very young age, he developed a passion for the flute. Now in his late seventies, Pandurang has been playing the fluteafor no less than 70 years, a record in itself.
“I was probabaaly in school when I first learned the flute. I was instantly attracted to playing it and learning it. It has been my only stable occupation for the last 70 years,” Pandurang says. Having taught Hindi and Marathi at Sacred Heart of Jesus High School, Pandurang left that job seeking more security in a government position. “After liberation, many candidates were absorbed for a mass survey on a contract basis. Once the contract ended, the government rehabilitated us in the Electricity Department. Thus, I worked in three different positions throughout my life,” he explains.
Besides his job, Pandurang’s passion for the flute remained strong, though it couldn’t provide a livelihood. “In Goa, an artist has no future and no demand. People have no value for music or art. Only because I had another job, did I have an income to rely on. What I earned from playing the flute wasn’t enough to support my family,” he says.
He explains that there are three types of flutes: Bansuri, Murli, and Pawa, the latter being famous in Gujarat and Rajasthan. “The flute is unique;acit binds you with nature and transports you to a different world. The rhythm from a flute is unparalleled and sacred, associated with the Gods since time immemorial,” he says. Pandurang considers himself a disciple of great Indian classical singers and musicians and believes their legacy should be maintained and promoted. “We talk of our parampara (tradition), but what is actually being done to promote it? Our parampara is dying as we westernise it in the name of tourism. Can’t our parampara be maintained?” he asks.
Despite being in his late seventies, Pandurang remains active, riding his two-wheeler daily. He attributes his vitality to two main reasons: playing the flute every morning as a form of prayer and yoga, specifically ‘Bahya kumb pranayama,’ which involves exhaling impure air and keeps the lungs healthy. “Yoga is not a one-day affair, and playing the flute reflects this,” he notes.
According to Pandurang, the flute’s melody has both scientific and spiritual benefits, creating a relaxed and joyful atmosphere. “The flute has a positive effect on negative minds, plants, animals, and the surroundings. Wherever I’ve played, I’ve seen the establishment of positive vibes and prosperity,” he says.
Pandurang was awarded the prestigious Kala Gaurav award about 10 years ago for his immense contribution to music. As a true music lover, he is always seen carrying his flutes on his bike, never travelling without them. He has attended numerous concerts and cultural programmes, though he never performed for money. “Art cannot be measured in money. An artist will always be an artist and love his work,” he states.
Though few today seem interested in playing the flute, Pandurang is happy when people approach him to learn. His close friends call him “Guruji” because he believes in teaching and ensuring the continuation of art. “If our culture or tradition is not maintained, everything is a big zero. Give me any song in any language, and I can play it on the flute and mesmerise listeners,” he says. “Indian classical music instruments move your soul, whereas western instruments move your soles,” Pandurang firmly believes, asserting that classical music instruments are our real wealth.
