The Secret Master: Arun Kashalkar and a Journey to the Edge of Music

Sumana Ramanan's 'The Secret Master' delves into the life and art of Arun Kashalkar, a reclusive but influential Hindustani musician, tracing his rigorous training and philosophical approach to music.

The book situates Kashalkar in the context of gharana traditions and modern transformations within khayal performance.

Ramanan combines interviews, musical analysis and cultural history to explain why such a figure remained little known despite deep influence.

The narrative illuminates the tension between public recognition and private mastery in classical music.

Readers gain both a portrait of the artist and a wider appreciation of the lineage and techniques of Hindustani classical music.