My Life: Story of an Imperfect Musician

My Life: Story of an Imperfect Musician is the freewheeling autobiography of Ustad Allauddin Khan, the legendary Indian classical musician and founder of the Maihar–Senia gharana. Transcribed from his spoken accounts at Santiniketan in 1952 and translated from Bengali to English for the first time, the book offers an intimate look into his tumultuous journey—from his modest beginnings in Tripura to becoming a revered guru and maestro.

In his candid yet commanding voice, Allauddin Khan recalls his spiritual devotion to music, years of gruelling training, battles with poverty and his uncompromising integrity. He narrates his encounters with saints, ustads, nawabs and commoners with equal vividness if punctuated by his humour, rage and humility. The book sheds light on his unconventional personality—fierce, loving, deeply principled— and his immense contribution to Indian classical music, not just as a performer but also as a mentor. Enriched with an introduction by his pupil Ravi Shankar, and rare photographs, My Life is not merely a chronicle of musical excellence but an invaluable glimpse into the spirit of a man who lived for, and through, music.