---
title: "Behind the Scenes of Sitar Music | Mehtab Ali Niazi"
description: "Explore the behind the scenes journey of sitar player Mehtab Ali Niazi. See the making of film scores, media appearances, and the creative process behind my music."
canonical: https://mytribe.in/mehtabaliniazi/world-music-fusion-concerts/behind-the-scenes-press
last_updated: 2025-09-22
---

# Behind the Scenes: My Musical Journey

Tribe Verified · 7th generation musician featured on Spotify

By [Mehtab Ali Niazi](https://mytribe.in/mehtabaliniazi) · Available for concerts across Mumbai, Delhi NCR, and pan-India · ₹1.8L Per Performance (60-90 Mins) (estimate)

Part of [World Music & Fusion Concerts](https://mytribe.in/mehtabaliniazi/world-music-fusion-concerts). [View full gallery](https://mytribe.in/mehtabaliniazi/world-music-fusion-concerts/gallery)

A peek behind the curtain of my musical world. From studio sessions for films like '12th Fail' to media conversations, this is where the music takes shape.

## Photos and videos

- [Video: A candid moment in the studio with the legendary director Vidhu Vinod Chopra. He was explaining the importance of the instrument's tone, and how a well-made sitar can touch the heart. It was an honor to work on the music for his film '12th Fail.'](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/ee5e7a82-1a6d-4368-ba94-a779b2744ffe)
- [Video: A fun moment in the studio with music director Shantanu Moitra. He was teaching me a rhythmic pattern by singing the tabla bols (syllables). Working with him is always a creative and joyful experience.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/c806a9d7-6ae8-4f86-bae3-76e967ea0525)
- [Video: The official after-movie from my session at the India Today Conclave. It tells the story of my journey, from people misunderstanding my instrument to demonstrating my vision for fusion music on a national platform.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/cad53336-59e4-426b-93dc-a7aa2e8b5f57)
- ![Speaking at the India Today Conclave in Mumbai. It was a huge honor to be on this platform, sharing my thoughts on taking Indian Classical Music to the masses through fusion and innovation.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/6d251552-3971-4ca5-8abf-7ff30ea47509)
- ![A behind-the-scenes look at the photoshoot at the India Today Conclave. These are the moments between the talks and performances that are part of the experience.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/9c9c0ded-e8fb-4985-b3ba-faa96813b137)
- ![An excerpt from my interview with Travel + Leisure magazine. I spoke about how I use fusion as a way to connect with my generation, while always remaining respectful of my classical training.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/7766b71a-2d8b-403b-8360-071d12ee9068)
- ![On a panel discussion for "Ideas of India," exploring how music heals and evolves with technology. It was inspiring to share the stage with other innovative artists and discuss the future of our craft.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/36e12c5b-22e1-4f54-b8d1-9c9c7e098fc5)
- ![I was honored to be the face of Spotify India's new playlist, "ECHO: Soulful Sitar." It's wonderful to see a dedicated platform for sitar music, and I'm excited to release new tracks there.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/b4c1033f-5c68-4248-aac3-0929e5f02b30)
- ![A photo from a shoot for my Gujarati folk cover, "Rang Morla." Even though I have a fear of heights, we shot this on a rooftop to capture the feeling of the open sky during monsoon.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/b11574ac-48ee-4b7c-838e-1a7df66cacaa)
- ![A happy, windswept moment from the "Rang Morla" shoot. The black-and-white gives it a timeless, classic feel.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/597cbaba-2b06-400e-94b0-de9761cdb62d)
- ![A photo from my birthday shoot. I'm not usually one for big celebrations, but I'm always so grateful for the love and well wishes I receive from all of you.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/d7751d7a-9422-4635-aafa-0780917e3c88)
- ![A moody, atmospheric shot from a recent photoshoot. The lighting and the vintage amplifier create a nostalgic, retro vibe, hinting at the kind of music to come.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/fefad20f-9b57-42cc-a219-ebbf2cdf4e5e)
- ![A sneak peek into the creative process. This photo captures a moment of reflection and connection with my sitar, which is where every new piece of music begins.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/4993f95a-6168-407b-b42f-06d478bbf758)
- ![Another portrait from the "Rang Morla" shoot. The focus is on the traditional black kurta and the expressive mood.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/478cb97c-d0ba-4a62-a5da-e0ef72a80205)
- ![A dynamic shot from the rooftop shoot, capturing a sense of movement and freedom against the sky.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/22834089-46cc-44f0-bc80-6ae06683fcb4)
- ![Walking carefully on the rooftop during the shoot. This photo shows a bit of the behind-the-scenes reality of getting the perfect shot.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/2a247a07-1780-455a-8a8c-9a644abe1a70)
- ![A portrait holding my sitar. The simple background puts the focus on the instrument and the traditional attire.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/2b46d993-9be5-4f07-b887-81018cbd1064)
- ![A portrait from my feature in Travel + Leisure magazine. This was part of their "Happiness Project" series, where I discussed my musical roots and my new-age approach to classical music.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/2951abf4-ae41-4512-8dd3-050de0b65f69)
- ![Another photo from my Travel + Leisure interview, shot against a beautiful heritage backdrop. The setting perfectly complements the conversation about legacy and roots.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/d0390349-26b1-4cfe-829a-5be1a314df02)
- ![A glimpse into the studio session for the film '12th Fail.' Here I am in discussion with the music team, a crucial part of the collaborative process of film scoring.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/55547596-1159-4187-9d29-1e50cfddcb8f)
- ![Another angle from the '12th Fail' recording session. These discussions are where we align the musical vision with the director's narrative.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/7dea7e93-5dc5-42fc-81d8-cf3c6b11555e)
- ![A stylish portrait from my birthday photoshoot. It's a chance to express a different side of my personality.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/860be521-20e0-406b-a264-6e1fc620bd06)
- ![A candid moment from the same birthday shoot. I'm grateful for my photographer who always captures these natural moments.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/cabbd7c8-9f14-43b9-8877-3f375aa1dcb8)
- ![On stage at the India Today Conclave, with my India Today magazine feature displayed on the screen behind me. A surreal and proud moment.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/02b07fc9-b43f-4b15-86f9-977399b55e65)
- ![A black-and-white shot of my performance at the Conclave. The graphic, repetitive background of the event branding creates a powerful visual.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/6ccfb9d5-9862-4287-bd1e-8539f811ec95)
- ![A composite image from my India Today performance, showing both a close-up on the screen and the live shot. It highlights the scale of the event.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/643c825a-fa9d-4a21-b552-c523eacb195d)
- ![Another angle of my performance, with a magazine cover featuring me on the screen. It was an honor to be recognized as one of the "Next 100 to look for."](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/c31f1b35-0b47-45d6-b599-e93bccb97071)
- ![Another photo from my nostalgic, retro-themed shoot. The warm lighting from the amp creates an intimate and cozy atmosphere.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/505b8ac9-c967-48bc-ac01-b1070b96e568)
- ![A portrait from the same shoot, where I am looking directly at the camera. It's a more direct and personal connection with the viewer.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/e29dc8a8-fe8c-4423-83b2-87b4f529c9b8)
- ![The low lighting and shadows in this photo create a sense of mystery and introspection, hinting at the mood of the upcoming music.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/e31032af-b011-4c37-a79d-15a99920e337)
- ![A smiling, happy shot from the end of the photoshoot. Even serious, moody shoots have moments of lightness and fun.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/194927e3-671c-4f54-b27e-c90cfacf7e88)
- [Video: A short, artistic video celebrating Eid. I played a rendition of the Qasidat al Burdah, a famous ode to the Prophet, as a sincere salaam from my heart.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/e1bedfa7-58f2-443a-aa35-34a605a83047)
- ![A close-up showing a moment of pure joy and connection with my instrument. The creative process is a journey, and this photo captures a beautiful stop along the way.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/560317f8-df9c-4446-a57d-9b0972965a8e)
- ![A more direct and confident portrait from my "creative process" series. It reflects the focus and determination that goes into making music.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/186e8ba8-d8be-45ff-9bcb-fe06fcc4ad5e)
- ![A classic black-and-white portrait with my sitar. This timeless image represents the deep and enduring bond I have with my instrument.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/fc8195d2-2d65-4e0b-8dfc-4d9fbf77ca78)

## About Behind the Scenes & Press

You might see me on stage with a polished performance, but the real work happens here. Whether it's jamming with Shantanu Moitra to refine a rhythmic pattern for a film score or managing my own acrophobia during a rooftop shoot, the creative process is rarely as effortless as the final result. I believe that understanding the effort behind the craft helps you connect deeper with the music itself before you decide to bring it to your own event.

Every performance you see on stage is the culmination of hours spent in the studio, miles traveled for tours, and conversations about the evolution of Indian Classical music. 

### In the Studio
Working on projects like the film '12th Fail' is always a humbling experience. It's not just about playing the sitar; it’s about collaborating with legends like Shantanu Moitra to understand how a specific tone or a rhythmic bol (syllable) can change the emotional landscape of a scene. These sessions are where I blend my 7th-generation training with modern production needs.

### The Media & Platform Presence
When I speak at platforms like the India Today Conclave or join panels on 'Ideas of India,' the goal is always to demonstrate that sitar music has no boundaries. It is not just a classical instrument for quiet halls; it is a versatile tool for fusion, jazz, and even rock. These appearances are my way of showing that tradition and innovation can coexist, and that you don't need to dilute your roots to reach a global audience.

### The Human Side of the Craft
My photoshoots—like the rooftop session for 'Rang Morla'—are just as much a part of my story as the concerts. They capture the mood, the struggle, and the joy. Whether it's the vintage aesthetic of a retro amplifier or the simplicity of a black kurta, these visuals are meant to give you a clearer picture of the person behind the sitar. 

If you are looking for more than just a background music act, these behind-the-scenes moments should give you a sense of my dedication. I don't just play music; I craft an experience for your event.

## About Mehtab Ali Niazi

I am Mehtab Ali Niazi, a 7th-generation sitar player breathing new life into classical traditions. My world revolves around the sitar, whether I’m recording in a studio or performing on a global stage. Music is my prayer, and every behind-the-scenes moment here is part of that same offering.

[See all of Mehtab Ali Niazi's services](https://mytribe.in/mehtabaliniazi)

## More from World Music & Fusion Concerts by Mehtab Ali Niazi

- [Featured](https://mytribe.in/mehtabaliniazi/world-music-fusion-concerts/featured)
- [The Mehtab Ali Niazi Experience: Live Fusion Concerts](https://mytribe.in/mehtabaliniazi/world-music-fusion-concerts/the-mehtab-ali-niazi-experience-live-fusion-concerts)
- [Original Music & Albums](https://mytribe.in/mehtabaliniazi/world-music-fusion-concerts/original-music-albums)
- [Bollywood & Ghazal Reimagined](https://mytribe.in/mehtabaliniazi/world-music-fusion-concerts/bollywood-ghazal-reimagined)
- [Global Crossover: Western Hits on Sitar](https://mytribe.in/mehtabaliniazi/world-music-fusion-concerts/global-crossover-western-hits-on-sitar)
- [Sitar Across The World: International Tours](https://mytribe.in/mehtabaliniazi/world-music-fusion-concerts/sitar-across-the-world-international-tours)
- [The Classical Soul: Pure Ragas & Duets](https://mytribe.in/mehtabaliniazi/world-music-fusion-concerts/the-classical-soul-pure-ragas-duets)
- [Legacy & Inspirations](https://mytribe.in/mehtabaliniazi/world-music-fusion-concerts/legacy-inspirations)

## More services by Mehtab Ali Niazi

- [Indian Classical & Devotional Concerts](https://mytribe.in/mehtabaliniazi/indian-classical-devotional-concerts)
- [Live Music for Private & Corporate Events](https://mytribe.in/mehtabaliniazi/live-music-for-private-corporate-events)

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## Book

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