In My Guru's Footsteps: Classical Tabla Tributes
A musical offering honouring the teachings of my Guruji, Pandit Subhankar Banerjee, and the deep, disciplined roots of the Farukhabad Gharana.
Once upon a time on an auspicious Saraswati Puja. This is a memory I will cherish for my whole life, playing for my Guruji at his home.
Wishing everyone a Happy New Year with a beautiful composition by my Guruji, Pandit Subhankar Banerjee ji. His music is a gift that keeps on giving.
Happy Birthday, Guruji. A simple picture from a moment of learning that holds a universe of meaning for me.
Paying my humble tribute to the legendary Sarod Maestro Padma Bhushan Pandit Budhhadeb Dasgupta ji. It is our duty to remember and honour the great masters who paved the way.
A moment of quiet reflection during the tribute concert for Pandit Budhhadeb Dasgupta ji. The legacy of the gurus is what fuels our passion.
Preparing to play at the 'Sur Sadhana' concert. Tuning the tabla is a meditative process, a moment to connect with the instrument and the music of the masters.
Receiving a token of appreciation at the tribute concert for Pandit Budhhadeb Dasgupta ji. I am grateful to the organizers for this honour.
On stage with Indrayuddh Majumder da, paying our musical tribute to the great Sarod Maestro.
A video clip from the tribute concert for the legendary Sarod Maestro Padma Bhushan Pandit Budhhadeb Dasgupta ji, with the brilliant Indrayuddh Majumder da.
A glimpse of the 'Acharya Devo Bhava' concert in Nagpur, celebrating the centenary of Pt. Bimalendu Mukherjee. It is so important to honour our gurus.
About In My Guru's Footsteps
When I perform these tribute recitals, it is not just about playing the tabla—it is a conversation with the legacy my Guruji, Pandit Subhankar Banerjee ji, passed down to me. Before I even begin, I spend nearly an hour in silent preparation, tuning my dayan and bayan to match the specific acoustic signature of the venue, ensuring that every bols is clear and carries the weight these traditional compositions deserve.
For me, the Farukhabad Gharana is not just a style of playing; it is my sadhana. These tribute performances are dedicated to the maestros who paved the way. When I present these compositions, I focus on bringing out the pure, clean strokes and complex rhythmic mathematics that my Guruji taught me.
Whether I am performing a solo recital at a baithak or collaborating with vocalists and instrumentalists, my goal is to maintain the sanctity of the classical tradition. I often incorporate specific compositions—the Peshkar, Kayda, and Rela—that are characteristic of our school. These pieces require a level of precision and energy that can only come from years of riyaz.
I treat every event, whether a large auditorium concert or an intimate home gathering, with the same level of care. I arrive well before the start time to calibrate with the sound team, ensuring the bass of the bayan is resonant and the treble of the dayan is sharp. If you are looking for a performance that respects the depth and history of Indian classical music, I am here to share that journey with you.
Debjit Patitundi
I am Debjit, a tabla player dedicated to the Farukhabad Gharana style taught by my late Guruji, Pandit Subhankar Banerjee ji. I see every stage as a space to honour his guidance and share the authentic sound of our tradition with you.
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