Classical music artiste Manilal Nag bears a legacy of Bengali music that cuts across six generations of musicians practicing Bishnupur Gharana. Ever since childhood, he underwent prolonged and extensive training from his father Gokul Nag. The lessons involved both vocal and instrumental practices with special emphasis on Dhrupad. He mentions a special association if not tutelage, with the legendary Baba Allauddin Khan, which turned out to be a life changing experience for him. He wanted to take lessons from Baba Allauddin Khan but Baba denied his wish and suggested him to lesson from his father only. Manilal nag describes the difference between Dhrupad and Khayal musically. He also confides about his fortune regarding his rhythm accompaniment ever since his early days of performance. He reverently recalls his experience of playing with a range of Tabla maestros including famous musicians and stalwarts like Kishan Maharaj, Allah Rakha among others.
