The Gwalior Gharana is recognized as the oldest and most foundational of all the gharanas in Hindustani classical music, especially in the khayal tradition. It is believed to have been established in the 16th century by Nathan Peer Baksh and Nathe Khan, who served as court musicians to Raja Mansingh Tomar of Gwalior (1486–1516 AD). The gharana evolved significantly under the stewardship of Haddu Khan and Hassu Khan, grandsons of Nathan Peer Baksh, who further refined and codified its style. Known for its clarity, simplicity, and balanced blend of layakari (rhythm) and raagdari (melodic structure), the Gwalior Gharana laid the groundwork for several other gharanas that followed.

The influence of the Gwalior Gharana is evident in its long lineage of illustrious musicians who shaped the trajectory of Hindustani classical music. Notable exponents include Pandit Vishnu Digambar Paluskar, his guru Pt. Balkrishnabuva Ichalkaranjikar, Rehamat Khan, Krishnarao Shankar Pandit, D.V. Paluskar, B.R. Deodhar, Kumar Gandharva, Omkarnath Thakur, Vinayakrao Patwardhan, Narayanrao Vyas, Gajananrao Joshi, Sharadchandra Arolkar, and Shankar Rao Bodas, among many others. These artists upheld the gharana’s tradition while also enriching it with their individual artistry, ensuring its enduring legacy in Indian classical music.