Gwalior is a city of rich heritage and culture. It has been home to the greatest musicians and music houses of all time. Mohammad Gaus and Mian Tansen are veteran musicians who contributed to the spectacular musical heritage of the city. These legends belonged to the popular music house called ‘Gwalior Gharana’. Plan a trip to the music city and discover the melodious past by taking a tour to the ancient monuments that are known for their musical heritage.

Tomb of Mohammad Ghaus 

Start your walk by discovering the tomb of Mohammad Ghaus, a respected musician regarded for his excellency in dhrupad style, sited in the Hazira area of Gwalior. The legend has it that he was an Afghan prince who became a Sufi saint and devoted his life to music. His mausoleum is an amalgamation of heritage and music and it was built during the reign of Emperor Akbar. Come, experience the rustic sandstone structure adorned with intricate latticework surrounded by the well-maintained lush lawns.

Tomb of Tansen

Just walk a few steps and you will reach the beautiful Tomb of Tansen situated in the same complex as the Tomb of Mohammad Ghaus. The legendry musician Tansen is resting in a smaller and simple marble tomb. He was a student of the fabled proponent of Dhrupad style, Mohammad Ghaus and was among one of the nine gems in the Mughal court. Tansen was greatly appreciated for his dhrupad compositions and mesmerising vocal performances. After his demise, he was rested near his guru and both of their memorials are popular tourist spots today. 

Sarod Ghar 

Another place that will take you to the rich musical history of Gwalior is the Sarod Ghar. Established by Ustad Amjad Ali Khan in the ancestral home of his father, legendry sarod player Ustad Hafiz Ali Khan, it is a museum dedicated to the well-known sarod players. The museum holds the colourful history tracing the four generations of sarod players born here. It features well-preserved documents, musical instruments – Hafiz Ali’s sarod and Allauddin Khan’s violin, photographs of the family, and an open-air auditorium for the daily musical performances. 
Explore the musical legacy of the cultural town with a heritage walk. 

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