Her Journey
Vidushi Shalmalee Joshi’s musical journey began in the culturally rich city of Sangli, Maharashtra, where she first learned the nuances of music from her mother, Mrs. Madhuri Kulkarni. Under her mother’s guidance, Shalmalee laid the foundation for what would become a remarkable career in Hindustani classical music.
Her formal training continued under the esteemed Pt. Chintubua Mhaiskar, a well-known teacher in Sangli. Shalmalee’s exceptional breath control, a vital aspect of her vocal prowess, was honed through her active participation in gymnastics during her school years. By the time she reached her teens, she had already mastered the basics of raagas, alaaps, and taans, alongside developing a deep understanding of laya (rhythm). This rigorous training culminated in a stunning performance at a music competition organized by the Sangeet Sadhana Group and Karale Trust at the Vishnudas Bhave Auditorium in the 1980s. Her rendition of "Bhupal Todi" left the audience in awe, displaying remarkable command and readiness beyond her years.
In 1994, Shalmalee married Shri Sunil Joshi, a banking professional with a deep appreciation for music, having been raised in a home enriched by the kirtans of the Warkari Sampraday and the frequent visits of musicians, critics, and music lovers. His understanding and unwavering support proved to be instrumental as Shalmalee’s musical journey took a decisive turn.
The pivotal moment in her career came when she began her intensive training under the Jaipur-Atrauli Gharana maestro, Pt. Ratnakar Pai, in Mumbai. For 15 years, Shalmalee immersed herself in the rigorous discipline of this gharana, known for its clear aakar (vocalization), tightly composed bandishes, jod-raags, and strict adherence to raag swaroop (form) and grammar. Her devotion to music and her guru transformed her into an "ashtapailu" (multi-dimensional) vocalist, mastering the intricacies of the Jaipur Gharana.
Shalmalee’s performances have graced major music festivals across India and abroad. She has extensively toured across the USA and UAE multiple times for her concert tours which have earned her recognition across the globe.
Today, Vidushi Shalmalee Joshi’s journey in music is a reflection of her unwavering ‘sadhana’ (dedication), which continues with full vigor. She is widely recognized as the foremost exponent of the Jaipur-Atrauli Gharana by major curators, organizers, and impresarios across India. Her music is a testament to her dedication, discipline, and the profound legacy of her gurus.