Vijay Gonahal

About

Sharing music for me is like passing on a flame - 'Diya se hi diya jalta hai'. Every performance is about sparking something in others, not just playing notes.

What I Offer

• For big occasions - think weddings or company events - I bring a full crew. Multiple sitars, tabla, flute, maybe even keyboard. It’s a proper sitar fusion ensemble, with my senior students and fellow musicians. The sound fills up the space, and honestly, it feels special for everyone there.
• If you want something deep and raw, I do solo sitar with tabla, diving into classical Raag performance. Sometimes I jam in a jugalbandi with another sitar or flute - that back-and-forth is always different, always real.
• For small gatherings, I love baithak-style concerts. It’s informal, close-up. You’ll hear the tiniest details. Feels like home.
• I also believe in healing sitar music sessions. The vibrations can bring calm, and I’ve played for health events and for folks who just need some peace.

Who’s With Me?

It’s a family vibe. My brother Puttaraj’s usually on tabla, my son joins in, and you’ll see my students too. That guru-shishya parampara (teacher-student tradition) runs deep here.

Where I Play

Based in Bangalore, but I’ve played everywhere from the hills of Munnar to small towns like Salem and Hubballi. Love playing wherever people want to listen.