“Kalanus”, a “dramatic poem for soloists, choir and orchestra” op. 48 was composed between June 1867 and March 1869 and is based on a text by Carl Andersen. A historical event during Alexander the Great’s Indian campaign (326 AD) serves as the origin of the material: Alexander met Indian philosopher Kaljana, referred to as Kalanos in ancient sources. Gade had originally intended to unite the composition with “Korsfarerne” (The Crusaders) (1866), and another work with Jewish-historical content in “a type of trilogy”, however, he later abandoned his plan and “Kalanus” remained in its singular form. The reception of the work was predominantly positive in regard to the music, while form and subject received a somewhat reserved response.<br>