Learn the Farukhabad Gharana Tabla Style

On the auspicious day of Guru Purnima, I played this piece in reverence to my Guruji. You can hear the distinct bols and patterns that are a hallmark of our Farukhabad style, with the harmonium providing the lehra.

A special memory from a Guru Purnima concert where Guruji himself tuned this pair of tabla for me to play. Playing his own instrument was an immense blessing and an unforgettable experience in my musical life.

A moment of instruction from my Guruji, Pandit Subhankar Banerjee ji. His guidance on the harmonium, correcting my rhythm and flow, was an integral part of my training.

Here I am playing a composition by Pandit Arvind Mulgaonkar ji, which I had the privilege of learning from my Guruji. This demonstrates how our gharana honors and incorporates the works of various masters.

This is a 'tisra jati' composition, a rhythmic structure based on a cycle of three, created by my Guruji, Pandit Subhankar Banerjee ji. In my classes, we explore these different 'jatis' to build a strong rhythmic foundation.

Playing one of my Guruji's favourite compositions. I feel his presence in these notes. For students, learning these compositions is a direct way to connect with the legacy of the great masters.

During a class at the Taalsen Music Academy, I demonstrated a traditional Farukhabad kaida from the legendary Ustad Keramatullah Khan Sahab. We focus on getting the tone and clarity of each bol just right.

Back to the basics. Even after years of playing, I always return to fundamental strokes and patterns. This is the key to maintaining clarity and speed, a practice I emphasize for students at all levels.

A short clip from one of my practice sessions. Consistent 'riyaz' is the most important part of a musician's life, helping to build stamina and precision in every tabla stroke.