---
title: "Indian Classical Tabla Performance: Hire a Pro Tabla Artist - mytribe"
description: "Looking for an authentic Indian Classical Tabla Performance? Hire Onkar Todkar, a professional tabla player from the Punjab Gharana, for solo recitals, accompaniment, and live events in Pune & Mumbai. Book an unforgettable musical experience."
canonical: https://mytribe.in/onkar_todkar_/indian-classical-tabla-performance
last_updated: 2025-09-30
---

# Indian Classical Tabla Performance in Pune

By [Onkar Todkar](https://mytribe.in/onkar_todkar_) · I perform live Indian classical tabla, solo or as accompaniment, in the Punjab Gharana style for any event or audience.

## Locations

Available for performances at venues across Pune and Mumbai Metropolitan Area

### Travels to

- Travels to venues across Pune (Pune, Pune, Maharashtra, India)
- Travels to venues across Mumbai Metropolitan Area (Mumbai Metropolitan Area, Mumbai Metropolitan Area, Maharashtra)

## Pricing guide (estimates)

These are indicative prices based on provider's past work. Enquire now to find out final quote.

### Concert Accompaniment (Sangat)

Support for Vocal, Sitar, or Flute artists featuring Punjab Gharana tonal quality and dynamic sound balancing.

Typically ₹8-12K Per Performance (Approx. 2 Hours) (estimate)

#### Pre-Event Synchronization
*   Briefing on Raags and Taals to ensure improvisational chemistry.
*   Precision tuning of the Dayan to match the main artist's pitch (Scale A#, B, C).

#### Performance Capabilities
*   Punjab Gharana style playing with crisp Nikas and resonant bass.
*   Dynamic volume control to support improvisation without overpowering.
*   Spontaneous execution of mathematical rhythmic conclusions (Tihai).

#### Technical Requirements
*   Arrival 45 to 60 minutes early for a detailed sound check.
*   Requirement for dedicated microphones (SM57 or similar) for both drums.

### Solo Recital & Interactive Baithak

Center-stage performance including oral recitation (Padhant), rhythmic storytelling, and historical context.

Typically ₹15-25K Per Recital (60 - 90 Minutes) (estimate)

#### The Repertoire
*   Structured progression from Peshkar to Kayda, Rela, and Gat compositions.
*   Vocal recitation (Padhant) of rhythms before playing to explain the mathematics.
*   Narrated history of compositions and anecdotes from the Gharana lineage.

#### Setup & Acoustics
*   Premium concert-grade instrument setup optimized for solo projection.
*   Can perform purely acoustic for intimate gatherings (up to 30 guests).

#### Support Artist
*   Includes coordination for a Lehra player (Harmonium or Sarangi) to keep the time cycle.
*   Note: Lehra player fees may be billed separately depending on the artist level selected.

## About Indian Classical Tabla Performance

### My Tabla Story

Music is my life, and the tabla is my way of connecting with it. I trained in the Punjab Gharana tabla style, learning from my Guruji, Pt. Yogesh Samsi ji. This tradition shapes everything I play, but I'm always listening, soaking in new ideas from other musicians too - music never stops teaching.

### What I Offer

I perform Indian Classical Tabla for all kinds of audiences. No matter if you understand every nuance or you’re just curious, my goal is to make the experience special for you.

- Tabla solo recitals: Here, the tabla takes center stage. I play traditional pieces and improvise, often with Lehra harmonium support. These solos are intense - pure rhythm and mood.
- Hindustani classical accompaniment: I love collaborating, whether it's with a Santoor, Flute, or supporting vocalists. Every sangat (accompaniment) is a musical conversation, not just background.

### Venues & Vibes

You’ll find me on big festival stages, but I honestly cherish the small setups - baithaks and mehfils, where it’s just the music and the people, no frills. Acoustic baithak performances are raw and real, sometimes no microphones, just the sound filling the space.

### Why I Play

Each concert, whether grand or cozy, is another chance for riyaz (practice) and sharing. I’m always learning, always grateful. If you want genuine tabla, not just a show, this is what I love doing.

## Highlights

Browse through Onkar Todkar's best work.

### [Featured](https://mytribe.in/onkar_todkar_/indian-classical-tabla-performance/featured)

- ![This is my sanctuary. A moment of complete focus on stage, where the rhythm takes over and everything else fades away. This is the essence of a live tabla performance.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/0b4e0950-8e2b-4c38-b000-1ee21d2ec8c8)
- [Video: A close up view of my hands during riyaz, or daily practice. This is a short clip of me working on a complex composition in Rupak taal, a rhythmic cycle of 7 beats. The endless hours of practice are where the real music is made.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/8a3d1660-e86f-4c93-9d58-22dad19fc0ed)
- ![The joy of a musical conversation. Here I am sharing the stage with santoor artist Shantanu Gokhale, lost in the flow of the performance. A great sangat is about listening and responding to create something beautiful together.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/245cb767-ba5f-45a9-aff5-d3712b1f4ab1)
- ![A wide view from a Gurupurnima celebration performance. Seeing an audience, young and old, sitting together and absorbed in the music is an incredibly humbling and motivating experience.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/c44771b9-5098-4832-8dd8-84a8566948ff)
- ![A blessing from my Guruji, Pt. Yogesh Samsi ji, after a performance. This moment is more valuable than any applause. His guidance is the foundation of my musical journey.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/2dc1ff09-e9f6-47f6-ba3b-c950432442cb)
- ![The unique atmosphere of an intimate home concert, or 'baithak'. I am accompanying santoor player Ninad Daithankar here. In these settings, the connection between the artists and the listeners is immediate and powerful.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/341014ab-8064-46df-8640-c69a78dac7f9)
- [Video: A clip from my solo performance at the prestigious Saptak music competition in Ahmedabad. I am presenting a traditional composition from the Benaras gharana, accompanied by Yashwant Thitte on the harmonium.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/c35086ee-24ac-4516-a3d7-0183d0c723ad)
- ![A magical outdoor concert under the moon. The setting of a performance adds so much to the mood of the music. This was a beautiful evening of Hindustani classical music.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/8152b96b-5105-45b4-a73d-758c40d8c67d)

### [Tabla Solo: The Heart of Rhythm](https://mytribe.in/onkar_todkar_/indian-classical-tabla-performance/tabla-solo-the-heart-of-rhythm)

- ![Explaining a rhythmic concept to the audience during a solo performance. I believe in making classical music accessible and sharing the stories behind the compositions.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/ab780af4-2fab-4ceb-bfcb-4f32cca8414f)
- [Video: A glimpse of my solo tabla recital during the Gurupurnima 2025 celebrations, an offering to my Guru. I was accompanied by the wonderful Siddhesh Bicholkar on harmonium.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/43ac6ff4-bdc2-4589-9d21-130f5b495265)
- ![A moment of connection with the audience during a solo piece. The energy exchanged during a live concert is a vital part of the performance.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/30d11025-bd62-4c8f-b3d6-96187eec7fb7)
- ![Deep in concentration during a complex rhythmic cycle. A solo performance is a test of focus, stamina, and creativity, all learned through years of dedicated riyaz.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/6593c91b-605b-479d-bf1b-56c7b697841c)
- ![A candid shot from the Gurupurnima 2025 concert. Even in the most intense moments of a performance, there are moments of quiet introspection.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/449fd9a7-2ee3-47aa-9ea4-8208f010309b)
- ![A view from the audience, with my Guruji, Pt. Yogesh Samsi ji, listening intently. Performing in front of him is the greatest honor and challenge.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/b08ce8b8-dfca-46be-9196-c37455f5867f)
- ![A focused shot from a concert in 2024. The stage lighting and acoustics of a good auditorium can elevate a performance.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/01738ac0-d747-4238-83a2-72920f9780ee)
- [Video: This is from the Gurupurnima celebrations in 2024. I am performing a solo piece, accompanied by Nilay Salvi on the harmonium, for my Guru and our musical family.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/4b35ad5e-84db-44ee-96eb-eee4f8c8f05d)
- ![A smile shared with the audience during a lighter moment in my solo. Music is not just serious, it is also about sharing joy.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/4fcf1882-56d7-4d6a-8157-759a21196ed6)
- ![A moment of pranaam, or respectful greeting, to the stage and my instruments before starting my performance. It is a gesture of gratitude for the music.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/1e73c954-c7bf-4830-b76f-8c1c1ef01d85)
- ![Tuning the tabla before a performance. This process is crucial for achieving the perfect pitch and tone, ensuring the instrument sings with clarity.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/e91d500f-4b40-43c0-9f69-88a0a84dcf42)
- ![Interacting with the audience during a solo recital. I enjoy breaking down the complexities of the taal and compositions to make the experience more engaging for everyone.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/87abfcf8-bd8b-4046-8e6a-ea7692d949c1)
- ![A profile shot during a solo performance, showcasing the hand movements and posture that are key to producing the rich sounds of the tabla.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/2455f7f7-8bbd-4b2a-a943-c81c4b8a0eff)
- ![Sharing a smile with my harmonium accompanist. The lehra player is essential in a tabla solo for maintaining the melodic framework of the rhythmic cycle.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/892566e8-d90b-4c92-a8b3-b5f47b2df1c9)
- ![A black and white portrait from a concert. The simplicity of monochrome often captures the deep emotion and focus of a performance.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/51d77f16-7bc3-4d73-81c3-660b3c79eca1)
- ![A candid moment from a performance, captured under the stage lights. The vibrant colors reflect the festive spirit of the occasion.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/b5354f83-9bd1-4968-a2df-d64d8b7294b0)

### [The Art of Sangat: Musical Conversations](https://mytribe.in/onkar_todkar_/indian-classical-tabla-performance/the-art-of-sangat-musical-conversations)

- ![The joy of a musical conversation. Here I am sharing the stage with santoor artist Shantanu Gokhale, lost in the flow of the performance. A great sangat is about listening and responding to create something beautiful together.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/245cb767-ba5f-45a9-aff5-d3712b1f4ab1)
- ![A magical outdoor concert under the moon. The setting of a performance adds so much to the mood of the music. This was a beautiful evening of Hindustani classical music.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/8152b96b-5105-45b4-a73d-758c40d8c67d)
- ![A moment of intense listening while accompanying a santoor recital. My role in sangat is to anticipate and complement the melodic artist's phrasing.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/1e9dd90f-109e-417c-96bb-0d0473bed31e)
- ![A happy moment on stage. The energy and rapport between co-artists is something the audience can always feel.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/a1f89e37-bfda-40cf-ad5e-e10d26b2b5f6)
- ![Interacting with young students after a performance with fellow artist Shantanu Gokhale. It is always a pleasure to share our passion for Indian classical music with the next generation.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/821f3d47-b3dc-4f1d-852f-855e35ade344)
- ![A post-concert photo with flautist Rasika Vartak and santoor player Shantanu Gokhale. Collaborating with such talented artists is always a learning experience.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/91a8c8e7-3fe8-482e-8c33-1e1a04d489d6)
- ![Another shot with my fellow musicians. Getting three artists to look at the camera at the same time is sometimes harder than playing a concert.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/bcb52d2d-8509-401b-af81-776f9dcd519e)
- ![Sharing the stage with my dear gurubhai, Yashwant Vaishnav. Performing a tabla duet is a unique challenge that requires perfect understanding and synchronization.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/ec19dbd5-aefb-4bef-b845-1e3903709b97)

### [Intimate Baithaks & Mehfils](https://mytribe.in/onkar_todkar_/indian-classical-tabla-performance/intimate-baithaks-mehfils)

- ![The unique atmosphere of an intimate home concert, or 'baithak'. I am accompanying santoor player Ninad Daithankar here. In these settings, the connection between the artists and the listeners is immediate and powerful.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/341014ab-8064-46df-8640-c69a78dac7f9)
- [Video: Performing with santoor artist Ninad Daithankar at a 'Masik Mehfil', or monthly concert series, in Pune. These community-organized events keep the tradition of live classical music thriving.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/bcce7ef8-b6c6-4694-a7d1-f10e48d99d4f)
- [Video: A clip from a performance in a baithak setting. I am providing tabla accompaniment for a Hindustani classical vocalist, surrounded by an appreciative audience.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/97d343d5-41bb-4c18-acab-299cf6c972e8)

### [Riyaz: The Daily Practice](https://mytribe.in/onkar_todkar_/indian-classical-tabla-performance/riyaz-the-daily-practice)

- [Video: A close up view of my hands during riyaz, or daily practice. This is a short clip of me working on a complex composition in Rupak taal, a rhythmic cycle of 7 beats. The endless hours of practice are where the real music is made.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/8a3d1660-e86f-4c93-9d58-22dad19fc0ed)
- [Video: At home, practicing a 'kayda' composition by the legendary Ustad Alla Rakha Khansahab. Riyaz is not just about technique, it is about internalizing the language of the gharana.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/cb6d2ddc-cb1d-4c28-a61b-36e45fa4b192)
- ![A quiet moment of practice at home. This is where I spend most of my time, working on my craft and preparing for upcoming concerts.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/83f987d0-a665-4ed0-a960-91f7dd1eaed7)
- [Video: An informal riyaz session with a fellow musician. These casual sessions are great for experimenting with new ideas and enjoying the music in a relaxed setting.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/70376f4d-bf44-49dc-af6f-64be12e71bb3)
- [Video: More fun from a practice session with santoor artist Ninad Daithankar. We often challenge each other to guess the raag and taal of a new composition.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/c93d0bfc-4e1b-4578-9de1-0c64f698fe67)

### [My Guru, My Foundation](https://mytribe.in/onkar_todkar_/indian-classical-tabla-performance/my-guru-my-foundation)

- ![A blessing from my Guruji, Pt. Yogesh Samsi ji, after a performance. This moment is more valuable than any applause. His guidance is the foundation of my musical journey.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/2dc1ff09-e9f6-47f6-ba3b-c950432442cb)
- ![A candid moment of learning from my Guruji. Just being in his presence is a lesson in itself. The knowledge he shares is priceless.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/0b0e6dd0-152f-44f4-bb0b-6d4877c3211d)
- ![A cherished photograph with my Guruji, Pt. Yogesh Samsi ji, and my gurubhais. Learning together as part of a musical family is a true blessing.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/615d0c0b-555b-492a-96b4-856d611b4726)
- ![A wide view from a Gurupurnima celebration performance. Seeing an audience, young and old, sitting together and absorbed in the music is an incredibly humbling and motivating experience.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/c44771b9-5098-4832-8dd8-84a8566948ff)
- [Video: A humble musical offering on the birth anniversary of Ustad Alla Rakha, or 'Abbaji', my Guruji's Guru. I am playing a traditional composition in Teentaal to honor his immense contribution to the world of tabla.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/f020ec7a-2e91-445e-ad3b-5171071a890d)

### [Moments & Milestones](https://mytribe.in/onkar_todkar_/indian-classical-tabla-performance/moments-milestones)

- ![A proud moment receiving the first prize at the Pt. Nandan Mehta Shastriya Taal Vadya Spardha, a national-level tabla competition organized by Saptak in Ahmedabad.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/e19b46c0-183c-45a8-90d0-3bf64e2327ca)
- ![A glimpse from my performance at the Saptak competition. Competing on a national stage is a valuable experience that pushes me to refine my art.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/eaae5e05-bcea-43dc-9048-68ef78013170)
- ![Another moment from the Saptak competition stage. The pressure of a competition is immense, but it is also a great opportunity for growth.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/081a4e9f-344e-4b8b-a94e-4cbe4c77e8b5)
- ![With my elder gurubhais, my guiding lights and support system within the Punjab Gharana. Learning from them is an invaluable part of my journey.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/7789479f-ce30-48dc-ac29-65e38a20a501)
- ![A casual moment with my gurubhais. The bond we share goes beyond music, it is a true brotherhood.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/994e0a5e-5329-468e-8dd3-21f1b028dda8)
- ![A group photo with fellow artists and organizers after a successful concert for a young audience. Sharing our music with students is always a rewarding experience.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/341f62ac-8fb0-4f1b-9dcc-d3c39ae815be)
- ![A moment of reflection at the end of the year. I am grateful for every opportunity to play and share my music, and I look forward to what the future holds.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/eb6b01fd-6a1a-4db8-bc1d-2f139044c9a2)
- ![A candid shot from an evening concert. The ambiance of a performance space plays a huge role in the musical experience.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/3866396f-097a-43db-9323-6612d1a89ff0)

## Meet your expert

[Onkar Todkar](https://mytribe.in/onkar_todkar_)

### My story

Namaskar, I’m Onkar. Tabla is my heartbeat, but I also pick up a paintbrush now and then – helps me focus, you know? Most days, I’m a student first, learning from Pt. Yogesh Samsi ji. That Guru-shishya bond, it’s my anchor. If I’m not deep in riyaz or on stage, I’m probably somewhere up in the mountains, or just lost in thought about random things. Keeps life interesting.

### My work

- **Tabla Performances**: I play solo tabla recitals, join Indian classical music accompaniment, and perform at festivals or cozy baithak concerts.
- **My Style & Training**: Learnt in the Punjab Gharana tabla tradition, under Pt. Yogesh Samsi ji, but always exploring new compositions.
- **Collaborations**: Love jamming and learning with other artists – that’s where the fun and growth really happens.

## Experts similar to Onkar Todkar on mytribe

- [Dog Training & Behavior Modification by Waggology by Vedika](https://mytribe.in/waggology/dog-training-behavior-modification) · ₹600-2,000 per session (estimate) · Waggology by Vedika The Dog Trainer
- [Tabla Performance Services by Yashwant Vaishnav](https://mytribe.in/yashwant_vaishnavofficial/tabla-performance-services) · ₹10-35K per performance (estimate) · Mumbai Metropolitan Area
- [Live Tabla & Percussion Artist by Harmeet Singh](https://mytribe.in/harmeettabla/live-tabla-percussion-artist) · ₹10-30K per event (estimate) · Mumbai Metropolitan Area
- [Event Planning & Decoration by Cherry Blossoms](https://mytribe.in/cherryblossomsstore__/event-planning-decoration) · ₹10-40K per event (estimate) · National Capital Region
- [Live Tabla for Concerts, Events & Accompaniment by Unmesh Banerjee](https://mytribe.in/unmesh_banerjee/live-tabla-for-concerts-events-accompaniment) · ₹7-30K per event (estimate) · India
- [Wedding & Event Gifting by Lush & Rapt](https://mytribe.in/lush_and_rapt/wedding-event-gifting) · ₹500-5,000 per gift/hamper (estimate) · Pune
- [Live Tabla Performance by Tejovrush Joshi](https://mytribe.in/tejovrush/live-tabla-performance) · ₹7-30K per performance (estimate) · Mumbai Metropolitan Area
- [Tabla Artist & Performer by Ishwari Vichare](https://mytribe.in/the_tablagirl/tabla-artist-performer) · ₹5-25K per event (estimate) · Mumbai Metropolitan Area
- [Branded Photo Booths for Corporate Events & Marketing by Pictastic Photobooths](https://mytribe.in/ pictastic_photobooths/branded-photo-booths-for-corporate-events-marketing) · ₹25-60K per event (estimate) · Delhi
- [Live Sitar Performance by Aniruddha Joshi](https://mytribe.in/aniruddhasitar/live-sitar-performance) · ₹12-40K per performance (estimate) · Pune
- [Live Sitar & Zitar for Events by Hardik Verma](https://mytribe.in/hardikvermaa/live-sitar-zitar-for-events) · ₹18-80K per event (estimate) · Mumbai Metropolitan Area
- [Live Sitar Performance by Chintan Katti](https://mytribe.in/chintankatti/live-sitar-performance) · ₹20-60K per performance (up to 90 min) (estimate) · Mumbai Metropolitan Area

## Book

To book Onkar Todkar, message mytribe on WhatsApp: [Chat on WhatsApp](https://wa.me/916360004054?text=Hi%2C%20I'm%20looking%20for%20Indian%20Classical%20Tabla%20Performance%20by%20Onkar%20Todkar.)