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Learning Sitar: The Guru-Shishya Parampara

byVijay GonahalIn-person lessons in BengaluruStarts from₹1,500 Per SessionView full gallery

Teaching sitar is not just a job for me, it is a way of passing on the flame. Whether you are taking your first steps or refining your ragas, we learn together in the traditional way.

An intense taleem session with my student Arjun on Raag Puriya. This one-on-one training is where we do the deep work on the nuances of a raag.

A taleem session with my student Sanjith, focusing on Raag Shuddh Sarang. I guide him through the intricate phrases and finger movements.

Part two of my taleem with Sanjith on Raag Shuddh Sarang. Repetition and careful correction are key to mastering the details of Hindustani classical music.

I am teaching a drut gat I composed in Raag Yaman to my students. I enjoy creating new compositions for them to learn and master.

A daily taleem session with my students, teaching the 'Main vari vari' bandish in Raag Yaman. Consistent practice is the only way to progress.

Teaching Raag Miyan Malhar to my student Ranjan Hemant ji. Even complex monsoon raags become accessible with step-by-step guidance.

We learn together as a community. This is a new batch of students practicing palta exercises for Raag Yaman. There is a special energy when we all play together.

The Guru-Shishya Parampara is the heart of my teaching. It was a great honor to play for my dada guru, Pandit Arvind Parikh ji, on his 97th birthday. This tradition of respect and learning is what I pass on to my students.

With my Guruji, a moment of respect and gratitude. The blessings of the guru are the most important thing in a musician's life.

A cherished photo with my Guruji during his birthday celebration. The knowledge he has given me is what I share with my own students today.

About The Guru-Shishya Parampara: Our Teaching

Every lesson starts with the basics of posture and how to sit properly, and we move to finger exercises called paltas before touching a raag. You will not find rigid classroom drills here. Instead, I dictate each gat and bandish directly into your notebook, just as my gurus did for me, ensuring you have a handwritten record to practice during the week.

Traditional Guru-Shishya training in Bengaluru — Approved by the tribe
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Vijay Gonahal

In-person lessons in BengaluruStarts from ₹1,500 Per Session

I am Vijay. My life revolves around the sitar, from early morning practice to the late-night baithaks with my students. I treat everyone who comes to learn, whether a young child or a busy professional, like family.

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An overhead view of our group sitar class. It's a joy to see students of different ages and backgrounds sitting together, united by their love for music. These sessions are about learning, sharing, and growing together.
Another angle from our special Bijoya gathering. The informal setting of a home allows for a relaxed and comfortable learning environment, which is very important in the Guru-Shishya tradition.
A special performance for a very special and young audience after our class. It is important to share the joy of music with everyone, especially children, to plant the seeds of appreciation for our classical arts.

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My Baba, my first Guru, sharing his love for the sitar with my young nephew. This is how the journey begins, with curiosity and gentle guidance, and I welcome students as young as six to start their own musical path.4
Three generations of sitar players in my family: my Baba, my brother, and myself. This deep-rooted connection to music is the foundation of my teaching, which I am honoured to share with my students.
A family portrait celebrating Gurupoornima, a day to honour our teachers. My father's guidance has been invaluable, and I strive to pass on his wisdom and passion for music to all my students.
A joyful moment with my family. The environment in my classes is like that of a family baithak: small, encouraging, and full of warmth, where every student feels comfortable to ask questions and grow.

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