Professional Sitar and Zitar Concert Performer
From national television stages to stadium concerts, I bring a mix of classical precision and modern energy to live events. Here is a look at my experience performing for large audiences.
A glimpse of my Zitar performance during the grand premiere of 'Saregamapa Li'l Champs'. Performing on a national TV platform is always an exhilarating experience.
On stage in Delhi with Ayushmann Khurrana's band, 'Ayushmann Bhava'. My sitar adds a unique layer to his live concert sound, blending classical tones with his popular music.
The whole team after a successful show in Delhi. Being part of a professional live band like 'Ayushmann Bhava' is all about collaboration and creating an unforgettable experience for the audience.
It was an honor to perform with the legendary Udit Narayan Ji for an event attended by the Prime Minister of India. This photo was taken just before our performance at Gandhi Smriti Bhavan in New Delhi.
A black and white shot from a fantastic gig in Pune with a full band setup including drums and keys. The stage design was as beautiful as the music we created that night.
A candid shot from a live Zitar performance in Ahmedabad. The energy of a live audience is incredible, and I always aim to connect with them through my music.
Another angle from my Ahmedabad concert, focused on the Zitar. The lighting and stage setup were perfect for creating a powerful, modern fusion sound.
About this collection
When I am on a large stage, my setup changes based on the environment. For intimate mehfils, I stick to my acoustic Sitar, but for stadium shows or high-energy concerts with full bands, I switch to my Electric Zitar. That electric edge is what helps the melody cut through the sound of drums and keys, ensuring the music hits the back rows just as clearly as the front.
Whether it is the bright lights of a Zee TV set or a stadium concert with thousands in the audience, the stakes are high. My approach to live performance is built on two things: technical versatility and band compatibility. Having played on national television and alongside artists like Ayushmann Khurrana, I understand that a live gig is not just about the notes. It is about how the Sitar or Zitar sits in the mix with drums, keys, and vocals.
For my live shows, I use a specific rig tailored to the venue. If the event is an intimate classical setting, I bring my traditional concert-grade Sitar. For corporate events, fusion concerts, or high-energy shows, I use my Electric Zitar. This allows me to use pedalboards for delay and reverb, giving the sound enough punch to be heard clearly in large auditoriums without losing that Indian classical soul.
Collaboration is key. I am comfortable reading notation, but I am equally at home improvising or jamming with a band on the spot. If you are planning a festival, a major corporate event, or a concert, let us discuss the technical requirements so we can ensure the sound quality is consistent. I travel across India for larger projects and bring my own professional gear to every show.
Hardik Verma
I’m Hardik. Varanasi gave me the classical foundation, but Mumbai taught me how to perform for a massive crowd. I love the high-pressure energy of a live stage, whether it's a TV set or a full-band concert.
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