29 November 2024/
THE MUSICAL JOURNEY OF POORNIMA KULKARNI: A VERSATILE VOCALIST FROM DHARWAD
Poornima Kulkarni, a name synonymous with excellence in Hindustani Classical music, hails from the culturally rich Dharwad district of Karnataka. Her musical journey began at the tender age of 12, under the guidance of Smt. Usha Datar, who laid the strong foundation of classical music in Poornima’s life.
Poornima’s dedication and passion for music led her to advanced training with the illustrious Padma Bhushan Pandit Basavaraj Rajguru. Under his expert tutelage, she studied the nuances of Hindustani Classical music and further honed her skills in light classical music with Pandit Vasant Kankapur of Dharwad and Smt. Kusum Shende of Pune.
In her later years, Poornima Kulkarni had the privilege of receiving classical music training from esteemed mentors such as Smt. Kusum Shende, Smt. Usha Chipalkatti of Pune, and Pandit Murli Manohar Shukla of Mumbai. Each of these experiences enriched her musical repertoire, making her a distinguished and multifaceted artist.
Renowned musician Poornima Kulkarni’s story is one of dedication, passion and an unwavering commitment to the art of music. Her journey from a young girl in Dharwad to a celebrated vocalist is an inspiration to many aspiring musicians.
Blessed with a rich, melodious voice and remarkable quality, Poornima Kulkarni captivates her audience from the first note. Her perfect rhythm sense embodies the true spirit of the Kirana Gharana. Deeply committed to teaching, she trains numerous students under the Guru-Shishya Parampara while expanding her on-stage performances.
ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE AND PRESTIGIOUS RECOGNITIONS
Poornima Kulkarni’s academic journey is marked by excellence, having received Gold Medals in both her BA and MA (Music) from Karnatak University. Her outstanding academic achievements have also earned her a State Award from the Karnataka Government. As an ‘A’ grade vocalist with All India Radio (AIR) Bangalore in both classical and light classical music, Poornima’s performances have been widely appreciated and frequently telecast on Doordarshan and other leading TV channels. She stands out as one of the few leading female Hindustani classical vocalists with a diverse repertoire, including pure classical music, Hindi bhajans, Thumri, Kajri, Chaiti, Jhula, Marathi Abhangs, Bhavageet, Natya Sangeet, Kannada Bhajans and Vachanas.
A CELEBRATED PERFORMER AND EDUCATOR
Poornima Kulkarni has graced numerous prestigious stages across India and abroad, captivating audiences at major festivals and concerts. Her performances at events such as the Alladiya Khan & Rahimat Khan Punyatithis at Dharwad Sawai Gandharva Mahotsav and NCPA in Mumbai, as well as international concerts in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and the United States, have earned her widespread acclaim.
In addition to her performances, Poornima Kulkarni has conducted workshops and lecture demonstrations, sharing her deep knowledge and passion for music. Her contributions have been recognized with rave reviews in leading newspapers and a documentary by the Kendriya Sangeet Natak Academy. Always innovative, she regularly organizes theme-based classical music concerts to engage and inspire a broader audience, particularly the younger generation.
Poornima Kulkarni’s journey is a testament to her dedication, talent, and unwavering commitment to the art of music, making her a true luminary in the world of Hindustani classical music.
