GuruBhakti — A Tradition in Flux

A reflection on the evolving Guru-Sishya tradition in Indian classical music. The article examines how the ancient gurukulam model — where disciples lived with and served their Guru for years, absorbing music through immersion rather than formal instruction — is being transformed by modern technology, institutional education, and changing cultural values. Drawing on personal experience spanning six decades as both disciple and Acharya, the author explores what is gained and what risks being lost as this millennia-old tradition adapts to the 21st century.