Facts & Trivia
Uncover the untold stories, hidden gems, and fascinating milestones behind the legacy of ITC Sangeet Research Academy.
Rare Gems
Fascinating stories that reveal the soul of ITC SRA
The Invisible Archive
ITC SRA holds over 5,000 hours of unheard recordings — including private riyaz sessions of legendary gurus.
These recordings include rare practice sessions of maestros like Nissar Hussain Khan and Girija Devi, capturing the raw, unfiltered essence of their artistry. The archive is one of the most comprehensive collections of Hindustani classical music in the world.
The Library of Rarities
The central library houses over 3,000 rare books, manuscripts, and journals — some dating back to the 1800s.
Among the treasures are handwritten notations by legendary composers, first-edition treatises on ragas, and personal diaries of musicians who shaped the course of Indian classical music.
The Visionary Founder
Pandit Vijay Kichlu was not just a musician — he was a manager who built a modern gurukul from scratch.
With 23 years of managerial experience and deep musical knowledge, Kichlu brought together legendary gurus from across India, creating a unique ecosystem that blended tradition with institutional excellence.
The Thumri Renaissance
ITC SRA's annual Thumri Festival is the only event of its kind dedicated exclusively to this emotive form.
Started in the early 2000s, the festival has become a pilgrimage for connoisseurs, featuring rare thumris and dadras that are rarely performed elsewhere, keeping this delicate art form alive.
Corporate Patronage Pioneer
ITC was the first Indian corporation to fund a classical music academy on this scale.
This bold move in 1977 set a precedent for corporate cultural patronage in India, inspiring other companies to invest in the arts and heritage preservation.
Global Footprint
ITC SRA scholars and gurus have performed in over 30 countries across the world.
From Carnegie Hall in New York to the Royal Albert Hall in London, ITC SRA artists have carried the flag of Hindustani classical music to audiences globally, building bridges across cultures.
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