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Behind the Scenes of Sitar & Instrument Craftsmanship

byNaeem SitarmakerWorkshop in Miraj; accepts instruments from across IndiaStarts from₹2,400 Per InstrumentView full gallery

Explore the traditional techniques used in my Miraj workshop. From hand-carving the tumba to precise fret adjustment, see how we maintain the legacy of our 1850s craft.

This video shows the detailed carving work on the body of a sitar. This traditional Miraj style of craftsmanship adds beauty and character to the instrument before the polishing process begins.

Here you can see the process of scraping the surface of a tanpura after the inlay design is set. This makes the surface perfectly smooth and brings out the shine of the wood and the detail of the floral artwork.

Fret setting is a very important step. Here, I am tying the frets onto the neck of the sitar. This has to be done with the right tension to ensure the notes are accurate and the playing is smooth.

A tutorial showing the traditional method for how to tie the frets of a sitar. This is a skill every sitar player should know for basic instrument maintenance and adjustment.

This video demonstrates how to apply the sympathetic strings, also known as taraf taar, on a sitar. These strings are crucial for the instrument's rich, resonant sound.

Precision is key when fitting the tuning pegs. Here, I am drilling the holes for the pegs on a new sitar. This ensures the pegs fit perfectly, making tuning stable and easy for the musician.

About The Craftsman's Process

Getting the bridge filing right is the difference between an instrument that plays and one that performs. I sculpt your jawari based on your specific playing style, ensuring the sustain is exactly where you need it. This precision is why professional artists trust me to handle their concert-ready setups, whether it is a daily practice sitar or a primary performance instrument.

6 generations of traditional Miraj craftsmanship. — Approved by the tribe
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Naeem Sitarmaker

Workshop in Miraj; accepts instruments from across IndiaStarts from ₹2,400 Per Instrument

I am Naeem, and instrument making is more than a job to me; it is my ibadat (worship). Growing up in our family workshop in Miraj, I learned that every piece of wood has a voice waiting to be found, and I consider it my duty to bring that out for you.

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The essential workshop trip for Jawari work. The icing on the cake was getting a peek into the warehouse where the instruments are born. Here I am with the craftsmen.5
In the warehouse, surrounded by dried gourds (tumbas) that will become the resonant bodies of future sitars. It is fascinating to see the raw materials of our craft.
A craftsman inspects the gourds. The quality of the tumba is crucial for the tone and sustain of the sitar.
A visit to the iconic P & Brothers workshop in Kolkata, a hub for classical musicians. This is where instruments are made, repaired, and maintained by skilled artisans.

Sitar Maintenance and Instrument Selection

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Shubhrodeep PathakOnline classes available; In-person at Sector 82 studio or across Delhi NCR
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A photo from my first stage performance, introduced by my father and first guru, Sanjay Rikhiram. He is one of the best instrument makers in the world, and this moment marks the beginning of my journey.
Standing outside my family's store, Rikhi Ram's Music, in Gole Market, Delhi. This is where our family's legacy of hand-crafting musical instruments since 1920 lives on.
A 3 am soundcheck with my father. He not only makes my instruments but also joins me on tour, ensuring every sitar is perfectly tuned. This dedication to the craft is what we bring to every performance.

The Legacy of Sitar Craft and Technique

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Rishab Rikhiram SharmaPerforms at events across 8 countries including the US, UK, and India
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Sitar Riyaaz and Technique Demonstrations

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Chintan KattiOnline classes available; In-person training in Mumbai
A black and white portrait of my beloved father and Ustad, Mohsin Ali Khan, tuning his sitar. Words will never be enough to express my gratitude for him.9
With my father and brother. My family is the foundation of my music and my life. Happy birthday, Abbu.
A happy, candid moment with my father. He is my first teacher and my constant source of inspiration.
Leading a sitar workshop at The Fine Arts Society in Kuala Lumpur. It was wonderful to see so many dedicated sitar players and share what I have learned from my father.

Sitar Workshops & Musical Legacy

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Mehtab Ali NiaziAvailable for concerts across Mumbai, Delhi NCR, and pan-India
This is a Rabab, a lute-like instrument central to the music of Afghanistan, Pakistan, and parts of India. We source authentic Rababs for musicians seeking its distinctive, soulful sound.9

Authentic Indian Classical String Instruments

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Khalsa Music AcademyDelivers across Delhi NCR; Ships across India, USA, and Canada
A lecture-demonstration in progress for students at Ramagya School, organized by SPIC MACAY. My goal in these sessions is to make Indian classical music accessible and engaging for young listeners, explaining the structure of Raags and Taals in an interactive format.8
During a Q&A segment at a concert in Kerala. I always encourage questions from the audience as it transforms a performance into a shared experience, allowing for a deeper appreciation of the art form.

Sitar Performances and Indian Classical Music Workshops

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Dhruv BediOnline sessions available; Studio in West Patel Nagar, New Delhi; Travels across India for workshops

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