The Pied Piper of Banaras

Manohar Lal Prasanna plays a hypnotic flute, and comes from a long line of classical musicians of the Banarasi Gharana, which also also includes the master of shehnai, Bismillah Khan. I met him sitting on the roadside and asked if I could take a picture. He showed me an album of family photos and played a sweet impromptu concert.

It’s almost impossible for professional musicians like Manohar Lal to make a living wage because there is no State support and the decline in interest in classical music. All anyone wants is Bollywood, according to him.

The next time you encounter an accomplished musician like Manohar Lal Prasanna, give them a listen, or refer them to a friend, or sponsor a small concert. These artists have spent years in learning their craft, and without them India will lose its true music.