Who among the following belongs to Patiala Gharana?

The correct answer is Ali Baksh Khan.

To understand why, let's break down the concept of a Gharana and then examine each option carefully.

What is a Gharana?
A Gharana (meaning "house" or "family" in Hindi/Urdu) is a system of social organization in Indian classical music that links musicians together by lineage, musical style, and a shared tradition of teaching. Each gharana has its own distinct style, technique, and musical philosophy passed down from guru to shishya (teacher to student) over generations.

About the Patiala Gharana:
The Patiala Gharana is one of the most prestigious and celebrated traditions in Hindustani vocal music. It originated in the royal court of the princely state of Patiala (in present-day Punjab, India). This gharana is renowned for its rich, heavy, and elaborate style of khayal singing, with a strong emphasis on intricate taan patterns, thick voice production, and deep emotional expression.

Founders of the Patiala Gharana:
The Patiala Gharana was founded by two legendary musicians:
Fateh Ali Khan and Ali Baksh Khan, who were both court musicians under the patronage of the Maharaja of Patiala. They are credited with establishing the distinct stylistic identity of this gharana in the 19th century.

Now let's evaluate each option:

• Nathu Khan — He was a prominent sarangi player and is associated with the Delhi Gharana, not the Patiala Gharana.

• Chhaju Khan — He is associated with the Sahaswan Gharana (also known as Rampur-Sahaswan Gharana), a tradition of khayal singing in Uttar Pradesh.

• Abdul Wahid Khan — He was a master vocalist associated with the Kirana Gharana, known for its deeply meditative and sustained approach to ragas.

• Ali Baksh Khan — He is one of the founding pillars of the Patiala Gharana. Along with Fateh Ali Khan, he laid the foundation of this gharana's unique style at the court of Patiala.

Conclusion:
Among all the given options, only Ali Baksh Khan belongs to the Patiala Gharana. His contribution to shaping the musical identity of this gharana makes him one of the most historically significant figures in Hindustani classical music.