Prof. Dr. Rajendra Deshmukh is a renowned classical vocalist representing the Maulabax Gharana and Gwalior Gharana traditions. His singing is distinguished by a melodious voice, forceful delivery, graceful Bandish execution, and creative Bol Alap and Taan patterns. His performances beautifully blend traditional depth with expressive artistry — carrying forward the rich heritage of both Gharanas.
A native of Yavatmal (Vidarbha, Maharashtra) and currently based in Mumbai (Powai), Dr. Deshmukh discovered his musical talent early in life. Deeply inspired by Pt. Manohar Kaslikar of Maulabax Gharana, he trained under his mentorship and went on to complete M.A. (Music), Sangeet Alankar, and Ph.D. in music.
Trained under Pt. Balasaheb Puchhwale, Dr. Deshmukh has 33+ years of teaching and mentoring excellence in classical music.
Ph.D. Thesis: “Enthralling and Heart-Touching Classical Singing of Pt. Rajabhaiyya Puchhwale and Pt. Balasaheb Puchhwale,” submitted to Amravati University (2002).
Interviewed and mentored by stalwarts such as Pt. Bhimsen Joshi, Dr. Sumati Mutatkar, Malinee Rajurkar, Pt. Vidyadhar Vyas, and others.
A-Grade Artist on All India Radio (Nagpur) and Doordarshan
Featured in the National Programme of Vocal Classical Music (A.I.R. Delhi, 2023).
Performed at prestigious music festivals in Gwalior, Mumbai, Goa, Pune, Nashik, Indore, Baroda, Nagpur, Aurangabad, and other cities.
Shared the stage with Vidyadhar Gokhle in the project “Preyasi Te Parmeshwar.”
Honored by Sursinger Sansad, Mumbai, and served as Member of the Drama Censor Board, Govt. of Maharashtra.
Honored by Sursinger Sansad, Mumbai, and served as Member of the Drama Censor Board, Govt. of Maharashtra.
Script on Pt. D.V. Paluskar’s Bandish broadcasted across all A.I.R. Maharashtra stations (2002).
Actively accompanied legendary vocalists like Pt. Manohar Kaslikar, Pt. Chhota Gandharva, and Pt. Balasaheb Puchhwale.
Conducted demonstrations and lectures on Bandish compositions of Maulabax and Gwalior Gharana in U.G.C. National Conferences across Maharashtra.
Author: “Gwalior Gharanyache Shiledar – Pt. Rajabhaiyya Puchhwale & Pt. Balasaheb Puchhwale” (Published in Pune).
Founder Secretary: Sangeet Kalopasak Mandal, Yavatmal – promoting classical music through concerts and competitions for young artists.
Established a Music Research Academy to nurture and mentor upcoming scholars.
Actively supported SPIC MACAY events to spread classical music awareness among students.
With a lifetime devoted to music, Prof. Dr. Rajendra Deshmukh continues to inspire generations of artists and students through his dedication, performances, and teaching.
