Live Sitar Performances
Available across Hubballi
I perform sitar for events of any size, from solo classical and baithak-style concerts to full fusion ensembles with my family and students, and I also offer healing music sessions.
Pricing Guide
Classical Sitar and Tabla Duet
Artist Configuration
- Lead Artiste: Vijay Gonahal (Sitar).
- Accompaniment: 1 Professional Tabla Player.
- Total Team: 2 Musicians on stage.
Performance Details
- Duration: 60 to 90 minutes of continuous performance.
- Repertoire: Pure Hindustani Classical. Includes slow meditative Alaap followed by Jod, Jhala, and fast paced Drut Gat.
- Vibe: Spiritual and culturally rich. Geared towards seated audiences who will actively listen.
Logistics & Tech
- Attire: Traditional Indian Kurta Pajama.
- Sound Requirements: Uses the venue's sound system (requires 2 instrument mics + 1 announcement mic).
- Travel: Inclusive of travel within Bengaluru city limits.
Instrumental Fusion Trio
Artist Configuration
- Lead Artists: Sitar (Vijay Gonahal) and Bansuri (Indian Flute).
- Rhythm: 1 Professional Tabla Player.
- Total Team: 3 Musicians.
Performance Details
- Duration: Up to 3 hours (including short breaks).
- Repertoire: Light Classical, Fusion, and Jugalbandi (musical dialogue). Includes popular Dhuns and instrumental versions of songs.
- Vibe: Celebratory and melodic. Fills the room with energy without overpowering conversation.
Logistics & Tech
- Attire: Coordinated Silk Kurtas or Jackets (Semi formal festive look).
- Sound Check: Requires 30 to 45 mins prior to the event.
- Travel: Inclusive of travel within Bengaluru.
The Grand Sitar Symphony
Artist Configuration
- Ensemble Lead: Vijay Gonahal.
- The Symphony: 4 to 5 Additional Sitarists (Senior disciples).
- Rhythm Section: 1 Tabla Player and 1 Keyboardist/Rhythm Pad player.
- Total Team: 7 to 8 Musicians on stage.
Performance Details
- Visual Appeal: A designated 'Show' item. The team wears color coordinated, high end ethnic attire to look cohesive on large stages.
- Musical Experience: Orchestral arrangements of Indian Ragas creating a thick, layered, symphonic sound.
- Repertoire: Energetic compositions, wedding raags (Yaman, Kafi), and celebratory pieces.
Production Support
- Audio Support: Includes technical supervision to ensure balanced sound mixing for multiple instruments.
- Logistics: Includes transport for the entire troupe and instruments within the city.
- Suitability: Ideal for main stage events like Wedding Sangeet, Receptions, or Corporate Annual Days.
About Live Sitar Performances
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.
Meet your Expert
Vijay Gonahal
9 connects in last 3 months
My Story
Namaskar! I’m Vijay. Every new class or baithak starts with a prayer to Saraswati Maa, always. My journey’s been guided by my gurus, especially playing for my dada guru Pandit Arvind Parikh ji—can’t forget that. This guru-shishya parampara, it’s everything to me. My students? They’re family. Little Sharannya, senior Prateeksha, even my son Ravi, and my bro Puttaraj on tabla. Our Alaap Sangeet Sabha, Grand Sitar Symphony—it’s not just music, it’s magic, whether for weddings, concerts, or healing.
My Work
Sitar Classes & Performances - I teach Hindustani classical sitar to all ages, and perform at weddings, baithaks, and big shows like Grand Sitar Symphony.
Traditional 'Taleem' Sessions - My classes start from Raag Yaman basics to advanced, even composing custom sitar gats for dedicated students.
Grand Sitar Symphony - A unique orchestra of sitars—pure musical bliss for weddings and large events, bringing harmony and joy.
Performances with Purpose - I offer Indian music therapy at events like Svaropachara, healing and uplifting patients, caregivers, medical staff.