The Legacy of Sitar Craft and Technique

People ask about the specific resonance of my sitar, and it always leads back to Gole Market. My father hand-crafts every instrument I play, fine-tuning the bridge and sympathetic strings until the tonal quality is exact. When you book a performance, you aren't just getting music; you are getting a piece of a hundred-year-old family tradition that prioritizes sound clarity and technical precision above everything else.

My music is an inheritance. Born into the Rikhiram family of master instrument makers, I grew up surrounded by the smell of aged teak wood and the rhythm of carving tools. My father, Sanjay Rikhiram, didn't just teach me to play; he taught me to listen to the instrument. This deep connection allows me to switch between the traditional Sitar and the Surbahar—the bass-heavy 'father of the sitar'—depending on the energy of the space.

The Lineage of Sound

Being the last disciple of Pandit Ravi Shankar wasn't just about learning notes; it was about internalizing a philosophy of sound. Whether I am playing a complex raga for a concert or a meditative session for a wellness retreat, I am guided by the technical discipline instilled by my Guruji.

The Craft Behind the Music

• Instrument Engineering: I don't use stock instruments. Every sitar I touch has been custom-crafted by my family, optimized for high-fidelity output.
• Technical Mastery: I focus on the intricate 'Jhaala'—the fast-paced conclusion of a raga—and the 'Alap' on the Surbahar, which requires specific mic placement and acoustic treatment to capture the deep bass resonance.
• Modern Aesthetics: Tradition doesn't mean staying static. I blend this classical foundation with modern pedalboards and electronic fusion setups to ensure the music lands in contemporary spaces, from corporate galas to modern art festivals.

This isn't just about playing songs. It is about maintaining a bridge between ancient Indian classical music and the modern ear, ensuring the art form stays relevant, powerful, and healing.