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

A CAPTIVATING MUSICAL DETECTIVE STORY THAT UNVEILS THE SOUL OF KHAYAL.

What happens when a seasoned writer on music stumbles upon a genius they have never heard of? This is the starting point of The Secret Master, a profound and beautifully written exploration of Hindustani classical music through the life and art of Arun Kashalkar.

Sumana Ramanan takes readers on an investigative journey to uncover why this charismatic maestro, who thrives on the fringes of Mumbai’s mainstream music scene, remains a hidden gem. Through her pursuit, she not only maps the intricate style of Kashalkar’s singing but also excavates the history of khayal—a genre rooted in "imagination"—and explores why such vibrant, authentic art forms often survive in the shadows of the mainstream. Part biography, part musical analysis, and part cultural meditation, this book is an essential read for anyone moved by the power of classical Indian music.

Why this book is a must-have for music lovers:

• A Hidden History: Sheds light on the underground culture that keeps the most authentic traditions of Hindustani music alive.

• Artistic Exploration: Offers a deep, immersive look at the aesthetics of khayal, making it accessible to both scholars and casual listeners.

• Compelling Narrative: Written by an award-winning journalist, the book reads like a detective story, keeping you hooked from the first page to the last.

• Meditative & Insightful: A rare opportunity to understand the nature of mainstream versus underground art and the dedicated individuals who sustain our cultural heritage.

Discover the maestro the mainstream missed. Add The Secret Master to your collection at Beetle Bookshop today!