Moments and Milestones in my Tabla Journey
Music is a constant process of learning and sharing. These moments reflect my growth as a student of the Punjab Gharana and my dedication to the craft.
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.
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.
Another moment from the Saptak competition stage. The pressure of a competition is immense, but it is also a great opportunity for growth.
With my elder gurubhais, my guiding lights and support system within the Punjab Gharana. Learning from them is an invaluable part of my journey.
A casual moment with my gurubhais. The bond we share goes beyond music, it is a true brotherhood.
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.
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.
A candid shot from an evening concert. The ambiance of a performance space plays a huge role in the musical experience.
About Moments & Milestones
Winning the first prize at the Saptak national competition in Ahmedabad was a significant test of focus. Beyond the recognition, that stage taught me how to maintain clarity and rhythm under pressure, a skill I now apply to every performance, whether it is a high-energy concert or an intimate private gathering.
My journey is rooted in the tradition of the Punjab Gharana, learned under the guidance of my Guruji, Pt. Yogesh Samsi ji. This lineage is the foundation of every note I play, but the milestones you see here are more than just accolades. They represent the daily riyaz and the collaborative spirit that I believe is essential to Indian classical music.
The photos featuring my gurubhais are particularly close to my heart. Music is rarely a solo endeavor, and having a support system of fellow musicians who share the same values and training allows us to push each other further. When you hire me for a concert or a baithak, you are not just getting a performer; you are getting someone who respects the collaborative nature of this art form.
Whether I am performing on a large stage or setting up for a small acoustic session, my approach remains consistent. I focus on sound balancing, precision in tuning, and maintaining the dynamic range required to support sitarists, vocalists, or flute players. If you are looking for an artist who values the technical history of the tabla as much as the live experience, I am here to help bring that energy to your event.
Onkar Todkar
My life revolves around the Tabla and the tradition I learn from my Guruji, Pt. Yogesh Samsi ji. I approach every concert, whether it is a grand festival or a small baithak, with the same dedication I give my daily practice.
Looking for something specific?
Explore other parts of my musical repertoire and services.
More from Indian Classical Tabla Performance by Onkar Todkar