Manjiri Asanare–Kelkar

Manjiri Asanare-Kelkar is an Indian Hindustani classical vocalist associated with the Jaipur-Atrauli Gharana, recognized for her command over complex ragas and traditional khayal gayaki. Born into a musical family in Sangli, Maharashtra, she received early training from Pt. C.T. Mhaiskar and later underwent extensive tutelage under Pt. Madhusudan Kanetkar, a direct disciple of Ustad Bhurji Khan, shaping her deep-rooted stylistic foundation.

Her musical approach reflects the hallmark features of the Jaipur-Atrauli tradition, including intricate laya-swara interplay, precise taan patterns, and adherence to bandish structure. She has also received guidance from eminent musicians such as Kishori Amonkar and Padma Talwalkar, further refining her artistic expression. In addition to vocal music, her early training in Kathak dance contributed to her strong rhythmic sensibility.

Manjiri has performed at major classical music festivals, including Sawai Gandharva Bhimsen Mahotsav, Dover Lane Music Conference, and Tansen Samaroha, and is an A-grade artist of All India Radio. Her contributions have been recognized with awards such as the Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar and Kumar Gandharva Samman, positioning her as a leading exponent of her generation in Hindustani classical music.