--- title: "Custom-Made Sitars Handcrafted by 6th Generation Artisan in Miraj" description: "Looking for custom-made sitars? I build professional sitars in Ravi Shankar and Vilayat Khan styles. Each custom-made sitar is handcrafted in Miraj for the ultimate tone." canonical: https://mytribe.in/naeemsitarmaker/custom-made-indian-string-instruments/custom-made-sitars last_updated: 2025-10-02 --- # Custom-Made Sitars Tribe Verified · 6th generation artisan craft since 1850 By [Naeem Sitarmaker](https://mytribe.in/naeemsitarmaker) · Ships across India; Visit workshop in Miraj · ₹18K per instrument (estimate) Part of [Custom-Made Indian String Instruments](https://mytribe.in/naeemsitarmaker/custom-made-indian-string-instruments). [View full gallery](https://mytribe.in/naeemsitarmaker/custom-made-indian-string-instruments/gallery) Traditional sitars, from Ravi Shankar to Vilayat Khan styles, handcrafted in Miraj with seasoned Tun and Teakwood for the ultimate tone. ## Photos and videos - [Video: A full-geared sitar made from beautiful teakwood. The machine heads make tuning easier and more stable, a modern touch many musicians appreciate.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/f237387d-8069-4648-b736-33cea1ca180b) - [Video: This is a Pandit Ravi Shankar style sitar, known for its rich and deep tonal quality. Notice the detailed penwork and the double tumba (gourd) structure, which gives it a full-bodied resonance.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/33fb8860-ecdd-4492-a402-2401e2e14e46) - [Video: Here is a sitar made in the Ustad Vilayat Khan style, tuned to D sharp. This style is known for its pure, vocal-like sound, and this instrument is being played by sitarist Nand Kumar in a recording studio.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/c08321d8-7e31-49d3-bf23-0ace5ed9b508) - [Video: Musician Rajeev Janardan testing one of our studio sitars in the workshop. These models are slightly more compact, making them comfortable for long practice sessions and recording.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/60fbd68b-d3df-4775-b0c8-71c900f26a3a) - [Video: We can make a sitar for any musician. This is a custom-built left-handed sitar in the Ustad Vilayat Khan style, finished in a deep red color and fitted with an electronic pickup.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/f06dd6a5-381c-4d0b-a387-98739b603c80) - [Video: A closer look at our special peacock design sitar. The entire body is hand-painted and decorated to look like a peacock, including a carved headstock. It is a true piece of playable art.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/2ed5291b-50f0-4329-8531-ee73024c1dd7) - [Video: A medium professional student sitar being played during a class at Kalaa. It is very important to me that students have good quality instruments to learn on.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/7dd18a66-8163-4c7b-8d72-6726d8913128) - [Video: This sitar is made from seasoned Tun wood in the Ustad Shahid Parvez style. The sound is sharp and clear, perfect for the fast and intricate playing style associated with the maestro.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/b1d81b53-9783-48ef-bfe8-b179a2b5472f) - [Video: An artist playing one of our sitars, demonstrating the deep and resonant tone we always aim for. Every instrument is built to produce the best possible sound.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/e318d26a-61bb-44f9-b8a2-bc48783bbc3f) - [Video: This is a flat-back studio sitar, which does not have the traditional pumpkin gourd. It is made entirely of wood, which gives it a unique tone and makes it very durable for travel.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/f16426a6-3a22-4d41-8678-fce1f6fe5006) - [Video: Artist Shivang Mishra playing a flat studio sitar I made. The flat-back design is a modern take, offering a different sound profile and a more compact form factor.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/80c7cbac-fc2a-4c80-b6a4-2216272e5903) - [Video: Another performance by Shivang Mishra on the flat studio sitar. It shows how versatile this model is for playing different raags and compositions.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/1644e360-7f7e-4c6a-a3e9-ed85ce6bbc47) - [Video: Shubhrodeep Pathak playing one of our custom sitars. It is always a pleasure to see musicians connect with the instruments we build.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/1067cb92-894a-4c95-b1b2-736515c76c75) - [Video: A wider view of Mehtab Ali Niyazi's performance at the Miraj Dargah. You can see how the sitar is connected to a pickup for amplification in a live setting.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/39f700d2-4dfc-4198-92fd-273b2c49b522) - [Video: This is another example of an Ustad Vilayat Khan style sitar. This style typically has fewer strings and a clean, focused sound that is very close to the human voice.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/c881dbcd-bc8b-4dfb-8400-80decc4aa706) - [Video: Arjun Anand playing a jod in Raag Jinjhoti on a sitar made by us. The instrument's clear tone is well-suited for the complex rhythms of a jod performance.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/b1df859c-dc08-483d-bbee-9b8ce9191ad9) - [Video: This is our Kohinoor model sitar with a matte finish and an electronic output. The matte finish gives it a very unique, understated look while the pickup makes it ready for stage performances.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/a423e094-f79e-4fde-b23b-22b76d0af5a4) - [Video: A sitar built in the Ustad Shahid Parvez style. These instruments are crafted to have a very responsive and powerful sound, allowing for dynamic and expressive playing.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/7c384a38-ae71-4f20-ba2c-5e07046980d5) - [Video: A close-up of a studio sitar, showing the detailed inlay work and the bridge. Even on our more compact models, we never compromise on the quality of the finish.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/b6628a5d-814e-446d-bb2d-5f782f12011e) - [Video: A close look at the intricate carving and decoration on a Pandit Ravi Shankar style sitar. The craftsmanship is just as important as the sound.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/50574ace-75d5-4564-84c8-0beb71d92b62) - [Video: A musician from abroad trying out one of our teakwood Ustad Vilayat Khan style sitars in our workshop. We welcome artists from all over the world to come and find their perfect instrument.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/4dfe2ebb-86de-4b22-be4e-e819cbc2198b) - [Video: A full view of one of our sitars, with many other instruments visible in the background of our workshop. Each one is waiting to find its musician.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/714dbf40-4b97-40e4-9942-892c5872e731) - [Video: This video shows the detailed carving and penwork on one of our sitars. The patterns are traditional and add to the beauty of the instrument.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/fb451b89-91e9-4087-92e7-6351dcbe36a2) - [Video: It was an honor to have Pandit Rajeev Janardan visit our workshop and test one of our Pandit Ravi Shankar style sitars. His feedback is invaluable.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/e7aa3b31-ba13-4892-826b-c6c91c065e94) - [Video: Detailed shots of an Ustad Vilayat Khan style sitar. You can see the specific shape of the tumba and the placement of the pickup, which are characteristic of this style.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/29fc4eb2-e8de-4ca4-b10c-414c8f8f35f7) - [Video: This is a teakwood sitar made in the Pandit Ravi Shankar style. Teakwood gives a very deep and warm sound, and the full decoration makes it a beautiful instrument to look at.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/6460c6d4-3d8a-4de6-af62-d3719068bd5e) - [Video: An Ustad Vilayat Khan style sitar with a pickup installed, ready for performance. You can see our workshop in the background, filled with many other sitars and tanpuras.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/0a6558d2-35d1-48d5-9d57-249cb047f7bf) - [Video: A full view of a professionally crafted sitar, showing its front and back. The simple elegance of the back contrasts with the detailed work on the front.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/768f82a3-241c-4265-af5f-e3903ebace52) - ![A close-up of the neck and tuning pegs of an Ustad Vilayat Khan style sitar. The craftsmanship ensures that the instrument is not only beautiful but also stays in tune.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/c9511ad0-b9f7-4db0-a29c-e34305d6ea7e) - ![The back of an Ustad Vilayat Khan style sitar. The smooth finish and simple line decoration highlight the quality of the wood and the gourd.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/9cc7c6a2-280a-4ad6-865a-5dedd794e3b1) - ![The headstock of an Ustad Vilayat Khan style sitar, showing our maker's mark. The carved pegs are made from rosewood for durability and a good grip.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/268a1e3e-c89b-4350-acf6-8fcb8dfe846b) - ![A front view of the tumba on an Ustad Vilayat Khan style sitar, complete with an electronic pickup. The simple bird motifs are a classic design element.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/0fcd444c-8e9a-4469-863f-9720b78a3f7b) - ![A detailed view of the polished gourd (tumba) on one of our sitars. The quality of the polish and the fine line work are hallmarks of our Miraj craftsmanship.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/a2218ff0-01ed-47b4-90d3-62cba92e9f48) - ![A full-length view of a classic Ustad Vilayat Khan style sitar. Its sleek design is built for a specific tonal quality, favored by many professional musicians.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/9317556b-e911-430a-9bef-d4e5398621f7) - [Video: This is a Surbahar, often called a bass sitar. It is larger than a regular sitar and has a much deeper, more majestic sound, perfect for playing slow, meditative alap.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/65def52a-6c51-435d-99e1-0aad4dd7a696) - ![The headstock of our Zen+ model sitar. This is a more modern, minimalist design, focusing on clean lines and functionality with traditional pegs.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/7a8e979c-a21a-4e69-a1bf-9c8798e46bd9) - ![The back of the Zen+ sitar, showing a simple but elegant hand-painted paisley design on the gourd.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/07e8f07d-aa18-4074-b666-22259fc27feb) - ![The front of the Zen+ sitar, showing the clean wood finish and a simple pickup. This model is for players who want a modern aesthetic with a classic sound.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/34a97ddf-7bfa-461d-b30d-ca6f939ba40e) - ![The neck of the Zen+ sitar. The frets are tied with precision to ensure accurate notes all the way up the fretboard.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/6bf320c8-01a2-4ce0-902a-220339e7c50c) - ![A back view of the Zen+ sitar, showing the full length of the instrument and the simple, elegant design.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/01828166-266a-4021-81d3-7ecc6e810815) - ![Delivering a custom-made sitar to a happy client. The best part of my job is seeing the joy on a musician's face when they hold their new instrument.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/a7cc1262-92e9-491a-9ef6-46526badb512) - ![The neck of a Pandit Ravi Shankar style sitar, showing the upper tumba (gourd) and the numerous sympathetic strings that give it a rich, shimmering sound.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/11127322-9bf8-46ec-8d0a-16950af7b2b4) - ![A close-up angle of a Pandit Ravi Shankar style sitar. The double tumba design is clearly visible, which adds to the instrument's sustain and resonance.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/6c82279d-0c76-435e-b04e-a979c49658ca) - ![The headstock of a Pandit Ravi Shankar style sitar, featuring intricately carved pegs. These details are a signature of high-quality, handmade instruments from Miraj.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/4dcfe129-c122-4b90-ae16-cb53918917b6) - ![The main body (tumba) of a Pandit Ravi Shankar style sitar, showing the detailed carving and inlay work.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/06968198-e684-4ffe-831f-e0bb1243528f) - ![A full-length studio photograph of a Pandit Ravi Shankar style sitar. This view showcases the complete instrument, highlighting its proportions and beautiful craftsmanship.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/ea96631f-afef-49f3-83ec-bac39dbdf3be) - ![Another angle of the Pandit Ravi Shankar style sitar, emphasizing its height and the elegant curve of the neck.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/dd077929-ef62-4911-897c-7e1c61ff1029) - ![A studio shot of our Blue Rock Peacock design sitar. This is a flat-back wooden model, which allows for vibrant colors and detailed artwork.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/371c52a8-1ac7-48be-88b1-46a43b2d55de) - ![The back of the Blue Rock Peacock sitar, showing the beautiful wood grain through the translucent blue finish.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/e2f7c941-9210-43e7-afa8-d565b334f5e0) - ![A detail shot of the Blue Rock Peacock sitar, showing the small, hand-carved bird figures on the bridge.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/6e8053f9-2c6f-47a8-a7a0-22a57f573569) - ![Another angle of the Blue Rock Peacock sitar, highlighting the intricate floral inlay work that runs along the border.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/964aeb0b-5cb8-421c-b548-233495ddfbaf) - ![The neck of the Blue Rock Peacock sitar, with its decorated frets and golden strings, is a work of art in itself.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/945d0d88-5b9e-479f-a8ae-a1e698688703) - ![A full front view of the Blue Rock Peacock sitar. This instrument is a perfect example of how we combine traditional shapes with modern, artistic designs.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/e412340d-d137-4600-ac27-02ffac2060b7) - ![A unique perspective of our Peacock design sitar, looking down the strings from the bridge. This shows the precise alignment of the main and sympathetic strings.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/d58e5e82-8270-41a6-bda2-96e4adf81a0d) - ![The front of the Peacock sitar, showing the detailed painting of peacock feathers and a pickup for amplification.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/3f325513-9bfa-4c1a-8427-d8309877923b) - ![The headstock of the Peacock sitar is carved into the shape of a peacock's head, a special customization that makes this instrument one-of-a-kind.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/4feb34c8-1df7-460e-83aa-2717c672fdad) - ![A full view of the stunning, fully decorated Peacock design sitar. This is a showpiece instrument that sounds as beautiful as it looks.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/9e96ef8c-e213-494d-b9ef-e47eceb55cd2) - ![A close-up of the main gourd of the Peacock sitar, where you can see the detailed, hand-painted feathers.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/6e8fb40f-0855-4754-b2cf-c897f062dd65) - [Video: Launching a new design for a teakwood sitar. This one features a unique combination of carving and inlay work, with a natural wood finish.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/ca66e8fc-4c22-4917-b192-1c5aab878164) - [Video: A musician trying out a new sitar in our workshop. The sound of the strings for the first time is always a special moment.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/a4ceeb07-0ef2-45ed-a4b6-f2ee0de7dafe) ## About Custom-Made Sitars When choosing your instrument, the key is the Jawari—how I file the bridge makes all the difference in that vocal-like resonance you are looking for. Tell me if you prefer a closed, sharp sound for fast playing or an open, deep sound for alap, and I will tailor the bridge filing specifically for your touch. My family has been making string instruments in Miraj since 1850, and this craft is in our blood. When you order a custom sitar, you aren't just getting an instrument; you are getting a piece of that history. I work with seasoned Tunwood and Teakwood, sourcing gourds from the banks of Pandharpur to ensure the wood has the right age and density for the best sound. Whether you need a full-sized professional instrument in the Pandit Ravi Shankar style (with the upper gourd) or the Ustad Vilayat Khan style (cleaner, focused sound), I build it to your exact specifications. Every detail is customizable—from the fret shape and bridge filing to the aesthetic work like traditional celluloid inlay or intricate floral pen-work. For those who travel often, I also create compact studio sitars and flat-back wooden models that retain the authentic tone while being easier to carry. I treat every student, beginner, and performing artist like family. If you need a left-handed instrument or specific machine heads for stable tuning, just let me know. Every sitar goes through my personal testing process for 'ultimate tone' before it leaves my workshop, so you know exactly what you are getting when you play your first notes. ## About Naeem Sitarmaker I am Naeem, and sitar-making is my life's work. My workshop in Miraj is where I turn seasoned wood into instruments with the soul you are looking for, whether you are a complete beginner or a seasoned professional. [See all of Naeem Sitarmaker's services](https://mytribe.in/naeemsitarmaker) ## More from Custom-Made Indian String Instruments by Naeem Sitarmaker - [Featured](https://mytribe.in/naeemsitarmaker/custom-made-indian-string-instruments/featured) - [Tanpuras and Tanpuris](https://mytribe.in/naeemsitarmaker/custom-made-indian-string-instruments/tanpuras-and-tanpuris) - [Electric Sitars (Zitars)](https://mytribe.in/naeemsitarmaker/custom-made-indian-string-instruments/electric-sitars-zitars) - [Specialized Instruments: Surbahar, Rudra Veena & More](https://mytribe.in/naeemsitarmaker/custom-made-indian-string-instruments/specialized-instruments-surbahar-rudra-veena-more) - [Our Craft & Heritage](https://mytribe.in/naeemsitarmaker/custom-made-indian-string-instruments/our-craft-heritage) - [In the Hands of Artists](https://mytribe.in/naeemsitarmaker/custom-made-indian-string-instruments/in-the-hands-of-artists) ## More services by Naeem Sitarmaker - [Indian Instrument Repair, Restoration & Customization](https://mytribe.in/naeemsitarmaker/indian-instrument-repair-restoration-customization) ## Similar work from other experts - [Authentic Indian Classical String Instruments](https://mytribe.in/khalsamusic/musical-instruments-sales/classical-string-other-instruments) by Khalsa Music Academy · Musical Instruments Sales · Delivers across Delhi NCR; Ships across India, USA, and Canada - [Classical & Devotional Sitar Performances](https://mytribe.in/sitar_sumarani/studio-recording-artist-collaboration/devotional-classical-pieces) by Suma Rani · Studio Recording & Artist Collaboration · Remote collaboration available; Travels across Bengaluru & India - [Authentic Hindustani Classical Ragas for Studio & Film Projects](https://mytribe.in/the_sitar_dude/studio-session-artist/hindustani-classical-ragas) by Arjun Anand · Studio Session Artist · Remote recordings and studio visits in Bengaluru & India - [Sitar Music Instruction with A-Grade Artist Chintan Katti](https://mytribe.in/chintankatti/sitar-training/featured) by Chintan Katti · Sitar Training · Online classes available; In-person training in Mumbai - [Sitar Maintenance and Instrument Selection](https://mytribe.in/shubhrodeep.pathak/sitar-lessons/the-sitar-instrument-care) by Shubhrodeep Pathak · Sitar Lessons · Online classes available; In-person at Sector 82 studio or across Delhi NCR - [Authentic Sitar and Surbahar Studio Recordings](https://mytribe.in/aniruddhasitar/background-music-for-videos-social-media/studio-recordings-for-professional-projects) by Aniruddha Joshi · Background Music for Videos & Social Media · Digital tracks available across India ## Book To book Naeem Sitarmaker, message mytribe on WhatsApp: [Chat on WhatsApp](https://wa.me/916360004054?text=Namaskar%20Naeemji%2C%20I%20saw%20your%20Custom-Made%20Sitars%20on%20mytribe.%20I'm%20looking%20to%20get%20a%20sitar%20made%20and%20wanted%20to%20discuss%20options.)