Chinmaya Vishwavidyapeeth launches ‘School of Kalayoga’ in Baner, Pune

Pune: In a city known for its rich cultural heritage, Chinmaya Vishwavidyapeeth inaugurated its new music education institute, ‘School of Kalayoga’, in Baner on Friday, March 6. The institute was inaugurated by the head of Chinmaya Mission and Chancellor of Chinmaya Vishwavidyapeeth, Swami Swaroopananda.
Chinmaya Vishwavidyapeeth is a unique institution that nurtures the ancient Guru–Shishya tradition alongside a modern university system. With the launch of the ‘School of Kalayoga’ in Baner, students will now have the rare opportunity to pursue Indian classical music through the Gurukul method while also earning a recognized university degree.

Speaking on the occasion, Pramodini Rao, Director of Chinmaya Nad Bindu in Pune and Head of the ‘School of Kalayoga’, said,
“India is globally renowned for its ancient knowledge traditions and philosophy. It is extremely important for us to stay connected to our roots, because if we are willing to explore, we can discover a vast wealth of experiential learning within our own traditions. According to Swami Tejomayananda, the true purpose of music is to elevate the art, the artist, and the listener to a higher spiritual and cultural level. Therefore, music education should not be limited to skill development alone but must also serve this larger purpose.”

The ‘School of Kalayoga’ will offer a four-year undergraduate programme (BA Honours in Music), a two-year postgraduate programme (MA in Music), and a Doctoral (PhD) programme in Music.

Students pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate studies will have the opportunity to specialize in Hindustani vocal music, flute, and tabla. The PhD programme will emphasize in-depth research in areas such as performance, pedagogy, musicology, and Indian knowledge traditions.

All courses at the institute will provide deep, experience-based and personalized guidance to students. The academic structure will also focus on research-oriented learning, ensuring both practical mastery and scholarly understanding.
Another distinctive feature of the ‘School of Kalayoga’ is its two-tier teaching approach. In this model, gurus provide traditional, experience-based training, while assistant professors support students with academic, theoretical, and research-based instruction. This dual approach helps ensure the holistic development of students, balancing deep musical knowledge, regular riyaaz (practice), theoretical understanding, and research skills.

At the ‘School of Kalayoga’, music is not treated merely as a subject of study but as a spiritual discipline and a way of life. Students will also benefit from a culturally rich environment that includes concerts, intimate musical gatherings, music festivals, and interactions with scholars and maestros.