Musician and Guru.

Pravin Gaonkar, from Canacona in Goa, took a step few would contemplate. He walked away from a secure academic career as Professor at Dhempe College of Commerce in Panjim, and with it the certainties that accompany such a life, to commit himself wholly to music.

Trained in Commerce to the level of a doctorate, he chose instead the far less predictable path of riyaz and transmission. He founded the Sanjeevan Music Academy in Panjim with the aim of training young Goans in the disciplines of Indian Classical Music. As guru and mentor, he works closely with his students, shaping both voice and sensibility.

At the same time, Gaonkar remains an active performing vocalist, appearing in concerts across the country.

Today, the academy thrives. A growing body of students is being trained in vocal, sitar, sarangi, and tabla. Through this work, Gaonkar has established himself as a formidable cultural force in Goa.