Photo credit: www.news18.com
Last Updated: April 07, 2025, 15:40 IST
Sitar maestro Rishab Rikhiram Sharma launched his 10-city ‘Sitar For Mental Health’ India tour with a soul-stirring performance at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi Arena.
On April 6, 2025, Rishab Rikhiram Sharma took center stage at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi Arena, marking the commencement of his ‘Sitar For Mental Health’ tour. Gathered in the arena were 14,000 fans eager to witness a mesmerizing musical experience.
In New Delhi, a city teeming with life and energy, a unique cultural event unfolded on a serene Sunday evening. The revered sitarist Rishab Rikhiram Sharma, known as the youngest disciple of the famed Pandit Ravi Shankar, captivated a diverse audience as he launched his 10-city ‘Sitar For Mental Health’ tour, produced by Team Innovation. The sold-out venue was filled with attendees from various backgrounds, who were collectively transported by the interplay of ancient melodies and modern sensibilities.
As the performance began, an air of anticipation filled the arena. Rishab invited the audience into a space of mindfulness, urging them to “Breathe with me,” which effectively quieted the bustling arena. He then plucked his sitar, allowing the ethereal sounds of Raag Tilak Kamod and Raag Shyam Kalyan to flow through the air. These traditional ragas, timeless in their essence, resonated as he seamlessly blended them into a new creation—Raag Tilak Shyam—enfolding listeners in a captivating auditory experience. The synergy of tabla and khartal enhanced his improvisational mastery, bridging the gap between Indian classical traditions and contemporary interpretations.
Transitioning into the concert’s narrative arc, Rishab’s first set shimmered with melodic brilliance. As night fell, the music deepened, leading to the performance of his cherished pieces, including ‘Shiv Kailash.’ This segment showcased his ability to merge vocal and instrumental expression powerfully and poignantly. The audience was particularly moved by a newly unveiled piece—a haunting homage to Varanasi. Inspired by the ancient ghats and the spiritual essence of Kashi Vishwanath, the composition enveloped the audience, transporting them to a sacred space.
The concert reached a zenith of unity when Rishab led the audience in a heartfelt rendition of ‘Saare Jahan Se Achcha.’ The stadium reverberated with the collective voices, embodying a sense of national pride. Continuing the emotional journey, he performed reimagined classics such as ‘Kal Ho Na Ho’ and ‘Tumhi Dekho Na,’ which provided a soothing respite from the pressures of everyday life. The evening culminated in a fiery finale with ‘Chanakya’ and ‘Tandavam,’ energizing the crowd with raw, exhilarating passion.
Rishab Rikhiram Sharma stands as more than just a performer; he embodies a movement that intertwines the old with the new. “We are witnessing a fascinating cultural shift,” he noted. “Ancient ragas are resonating with contemporary listeners in profoundly new ways. Classical music isn’t just surviving in the digital age; it’s thriving.” This sentiment resonates deeply with younger generations who are seeking deeper connections in music as opposed to the transient trends of modern sounds.
This current tour is Rishab’s most ambitious project yet, building on the acclaim garnered from performances in North America. Each of the 120-minute concerts is not merely an entertainment event; it serves as an immersive exploration of sound and mindfulness, where classical Indian music intersects with modern themes of mental health. Rishab asserts the profound potential of music to heal, suggesting that the age-old vibrations of the sitar can provide solace amidst the complexities of contemporary life.
As the reverberations of that memorable night linger, Rishab’s journey progresses through nine more cities, each providing him a new canvas to paint his musical artistry. Through each string plucked, he invites audiences not just to hear but to feel and reflect. In a world often marked by chaos, Rishab Rikhiram Sharma’s performances illuminate the essential truth that healing commences where music and tranquility intertwine.
Source
www.news18.com