Eminent Indian classical violinist Minoti Khaund passed away on January 19, 2026, at the age of 85, marking the end of an era in Assam’s classical music tradition.

Who was Minoti Khaund?

Minoti Khaund was one of Assam’s finest exponents of Hindustani classical violin, known for her depth, restraint, and devotion to musical purity.

• Born in 1940 in Jorhat, her musical journey began at the age of ten.
• She received her early training under Indreswar Sarma at the Darpanath Sarma Music School.
• A turning point came in 1972, when legendary violin maestro Pandit V. G. Jog accepted her as a disciple after being deeply impressed by her performance at the All Assam Music Conference.
• She symbolised quiet excellence in Indian classical music. 

Her life reminds us that cultural traditions survive not through fame, but through discipline, humility, and continuity.

Musical style and contribution

Minoti Khaund belonged to a generation that viewed music as tapasya (austere discipline).

• Her violin playing was deeply influenced by the Gayaki Ang, giving it a vocal, meditative quality.
• She also trained under sarod maestro Pandit Buddhadev Dasgupta, enriching her understanding of raga and tala.
• Her performances were marked by classical purity, patience, and emotional depth, without theatrical display.

Role as a guru and cultural ambassador

Beyond performance, she was a dedicated teacher and mentor.

• She believed strongly in the guru–shishya parampara.
• Served as visiting faculty and examiner at music institutions in Assam.
• Trained several students, including her daughter Sunita Khaund, herself a noted violinist.
• Represented India internationally through the Indian Council for Cultural Relations.

Awards and recognition

Her lifelong dedication was honoured through:

• Gold Medal (Sangeet Nipune) – Prayag Sangeet Samiti (1986)
• Sangeet Natak Akademi Amrit Award (2024)

Assam Government honours such as Sangeet Jyoti Award, Silpi Award, and Artist Pension

Exam Hook – 

Q. Which of the following statements about Minoti Khaund is/are correct?

1. She was an eminent Hindustani classical violinist from Assam.
2. She was a disciple of Pandit V. G. Jog.
3. She received the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award.

Answer: 1, 2 and 3

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