--- title: "Mastering Indian Classical Raags: Expert Sitar Lessons in Mumbai" description: "Build a strong foundation in Indian classical music with PhD-trained musician Hardik Verma. Master Raag theory and technique through structured sitar lessons." canonical: https://mytribe.in/hardikvermaa/sitar-zitar-lessons/deep-dive-into-classical-raags last_updated: 2025-09-30 --- # Mastering Indian Classical Raags: Sitar Classes with Hardik Verma Tribe Verified · PhD-trained musician with international performance experience By [Hardik Verma](https://mytribe.in/hardikvermaa) · Online classes globally; In-person classes in Mumbai and Varanasi · ₹3,000 per month (4 sessions) (estimate) Part of [Sitar & Zitar Lessons](https://mytribe.in/hardikvermaa/sitar-zitar-lessons). [View full gallery](https://mytribe.in/hardikvermaa/sitar-zitar-lessons/gallery) Go beyond the surface. My lessons are built on my PhD training at BHU, taking you deep into the structure, theory, and soul of Indian classical music. ## Photos and videos - [Video: Improvising within the framework of Raag Kedar. This Raag is known for its grace and power, and in my lessons, we work on mastering its distinct phrases and emotional depth.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/0fc005bc-7f3d-48ba-b971-6108dcc4d16a) - [Video: Exploring the beautiful melodies of Raag Charukeshi on the sitar. This is a glimpse into my daily practice, or 'riyaaz', which is fundamental to growing as a musician.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/f1a43c65-3980-44ba-b2a5-3cd62b0d92c0) - [Video: A short improvisation in Raag Hameer, focusing on the 'alap' section which introduces the Raag's character. Understanding the structure of a Raag is a core part of my classical curriculum.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/bbf085bd-ec3b-40a9-b939-86431c0c09d5) - [Video: A quick pre-show warm up playing Raag Hameer backstage in Houston. Even in a modern, high energy environment, I stay connected to my classical roots.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/1213f3b3-6174-4d7a-8e1c-256dc6f30451) - [Video: A short improvisation in Raag Malkauns on the acoustic sitar. This is one of the foundational Raags we explore in my classical lessons, focusing on its deep and meditative character.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/f9050bde-0c9b-41a2-8e58-8958e3a42772) ## About Deep Dive into Classical Raags When we start, I focus on building your hand posture and ear training, not just teaching you songs. Whether you are learning Raag Kedar or Malkauns, we treat the instrument as an extension of yourself, ensuring you understand the 'why' behind every note before we move to the next complex phrase. Learning the sitar is about more than just hitting the right notes. It is about understanding the grammar of the music. In my classes, we use the structured academic approach I developed during my time at BHU, combined with the practical techniques I use on stage for live performances. ### My Approach to Raag Training We break down the music into logical components: theory, practice, and improvisation. - **Theory:** You will learn the history and structure of each Raag, from the fundamental notes to the specific mood it evokes. - **Technique:** We work on 'Alap', 'Jod', and 'Jhala' to build dexterity. I will guide you on how to handle the sitar to get that clear, resonant sound. - **Application:** You don't just memorize scales. I teach you how to improvise within the rules of the Raag, just like I do when I am performing on stage in Houston or Mumbai. ### Finding Your Format I offer two main ways to learn. My Institute Group Classes follow a certified, structured syllabus, which is great if you want a clear academic roadmap from beginner to advanced levels. If you have specific goals or need a flexible schedule, my 1-on-1 private sessions allow us to move at your pace. We can focus on pure classical training, or integrate your interest in Bollywood fusion if that helps you stay motivated. Whatever route you choose, my goal is to pass on the Banaras gharana tradition while helping you develop your own musical voice. Bring your instrument and some enthusiasm, and let's get started. ## About Hardik Verma I grew up in Varanasi, so the soul of my music is rooted in the city's classical traditions. I combine that deep academic grounding with my years of stage experience to help you find your own voice on the sitar. [See all of Hardik Verma's services](https://mytribe.in/hardikvermaa) ## More from Sitar & Zitar Lessons by Hardik Verma - [Featured](https://mytribe.in/hardikvermaa/sitar-zitar-lessons/featured) - [Bollywood & Fusion on Sitar/Zitar](https://mytribe.in/hardikvermaa/sitar-zitar-lessons/bollywood-fusion-on-sitar-zitar) - [The Art of Collaboration](https://mytribe.in/hardikvermaa/sitar-zitar-lessons/the-art-of-collaboration) - [In the Studio & On the Stage](https://mytribe.in/hardikvermaa/sitar-zitar-lessons/in-the-studio-on-the-stage) - [My Roots in Varanasi](https://mytribe.in/hardikvermaa/sitar-zitar-lessons/my-roots-in-varanasi) ## More services by Hardik Verma - [Live Sitar & Zitar for Events](https://mytribe.in/hardikvermaa/live-sitar-zitar-for-events) - [Studio Recording & Session Work](https://mytribe.in/hardikvermaa/studio-recording-session-work) ## Similar work from other experts - [Raga Riyāz: Mastering Classical Sitar Techniques](https://mytribe.in/the_sitar_dude/sitar-lessons/raga-riy-z-a-deep-dive-into-classical-sitar) by Arjun Anand · Sitar Lessons · Online classes and home tuitions in Bengaluru - [Sitar Riyaaz and Technique Demonstrations](https://mytribe.in/chintankatti/sitar-training/the-art-of-riyaaz-sitar-demonstrations) by Chintan Katti · Sitar Training · Online classes available; In-person training in Mumbai - [Indian Classical String Instrument Training](https://mytribe.in/khalsamusic/indian-instrumental-music-classes/melodious-strings) by Khalsa Music Academy · Indian Instrumental Music Classes · Online classes available; In-person classes in Delhi NCR - [Sitar Classes & Classical Music Performances](https://mytribe.in/shubhrodeep.pathak/sitar-lessons/featured) by Shubhrodeep Pathak · Sitar Lessons · Online classes available; In-person at Sector 82 studio or across Delhi NCR - [Master Harmonium & Indian Classical Music with Nitz Music Academy](https://mytribe.in/nitzmusicacademy/music-instrument-classes/harmonium-indian-classical-music) by Nitz Music Academy · Music Instrument Classes · Online classes globally & at 5 academy branches across Mumbai - [Indian Classical Music: Vocal & Instrumental Training](https://mytribe.in/melamusicschool/vocal-lessons/indian-classical-vocal-instrumental) by Mela Music School · Vocal Lessons · Online and at Studio in Sahakar Nagar, Bengaluru ## Book To book Hardik Verma, message mytribe on WhatsApp: [Chat on WhatsApp](https://wa.me/916360004054?text=Hi%20Hardik%2C%20I%20saw%20your%20work%20on%20Deep%20Dive%20into%20Classical%20Raags.%20I%20am%20interested%20in%20learning%20sitar.%20Are%20you%20taking%20new%20students%3F)