Live Sitar Performances
Available across India
I play live sitar for weddings, corporate events, festivals, and private gatherings, offering solo, duo, or full band performances with a mix of classical, film, and fusion music.
Pricing Guide
Sitar & Tabla Duet: Jugalbandi
Artist Configuration
- Lead: Suma Rani on Sitar.
- Accompaniment: One professional Senior Tabla player.
- Presentation: Coordinated traditional ethnic wear (Saree for Lead, Kurta/Pyjama for Percussionist).
Musical Scope
- Duration: 2.5 hours (includes a 15-min break).
- Repertoire: Energetic Jugalbandi (interplay between instruments), instrumental Bollywood classics, and Kannada retro songs.
- Suitability: Designed for wedding receptions, engagements, and corporate dinners.
Technical Requirements
- Sound System: Client must provide a professional PA system with at least 2 stage monitors and 3 input channels.
- Staging: Raised platform required for visibility.
Solo Sitar: Classical & Devotional
Artist & Attire
- Performer: Solo performance by Vidushi Suma Rani (Kannada Rajyotsava Awardee).
- Look: Traditional Silk/Kanjeevaram Saree with jewelry, suitable for religious or formal family settings.
Performance Details
- Duration: Up to 90 minutes continuous.
- Genre: Pure Classical Ragas and Devotional tracks (Meera Bhajans, Ganesh Stutis).
- Vibe: Meditative and soothing background ambience or focused listening.
Technical & Logistics
- Gear: Artist provides professional Sitar and Electronic Tanpura for drone accompaniment.
- Client Needs: Client must provide a sound system if the guest count exceeds 30. A raised platform or dewan (6x4 ft) is required for seating.
Grand Sitar Symphony: 7-Piece Ensemble
Ensemble Composition
- Strings: Vidushi Suma Rani plus 3 Associate Sitarists for a harmonic symphony effect.
- Rhythm & Keys: 1 Professional Tabla Player, 1 Keyboardist, and 1 Rhythm Pad/Percussionist.
- Visuals: All 7 artists dressed in color-coordinated, grand ethnic attire.
Performance Experience
- Scope: Mini-concert experience designed as the event centerpiece.
- Genre: Orchestrated fusion, grand classical pieces, and high-energy cinematic instrumental medleys.
Production & Tech
- Sound Check: Includes a mandatory 60-minute sound check prior to the event.
- Tech Rider: Price covers talent only. Client must rent specific sound equipment (12-16 channel mixer, 8+ microphones) per the artist's technical rider.
About Live Sitar Performances
Why I Play Sitar
Music is my way of connecting with people. The sitar lets me express what I sometimes can't say with words. I learnt from my guruji, Pandit N V Gopinath, and every time I sit down with my instrument, I carry his lessons with me.
What I Play
- My roots are in Indian classical music, but I mix it up with film songs and even some fusion.
- I enjoy playing soulful bhajans, classic Bollywood melodies on sitar, Kannada hits, and Tamil songs that get everyone humming along.
- I’ve had the chance to be part of fusion sitar ensemble projects too, like the Grammy-nominated ‘Divine Tides’ with Ricky Kej and Stewart Copeland. Working with artists from around the world has changed how I see music.
How I Perform
- I offer intimate solo performances, great when you want a peaceful vibe.
- For a more traditional sound, I team up with a tabla player for a sitar and tabla duo performance.
- If you want something grand, I lead a group of sitarists with a full band – works well for big celebrations or weddings.
Where My Music Fits
You’ll often find me playing at weddings, corporate events, cultural festivals, devotional gatherings, and private parties.
Sirigannadam gelge! (Let Kannada flourish!)
Meet your Expert
Suma Rani
9 connects in last 3 months
My Story
Music found me early, thanks to my guruji, Pandit N V Gopinath. Those lessons, those old-school vibes, they’re in every note I play. Sharing the stage with Ricky Kej, Stewart Copeland, and even playing at 12,000 feet in Leh-Ladakh – wild, right? ‘Divine Tides’ Grammy nod, Dasara crowds, or just a quiet bhajan at home, I carry my Kannada roots everywhere. Sirigannadam gelge! (Let Kannada shine!) For me, music’s pure joy – and I love sharing it.
My Work
Live Sitar & Mandolin Shows - Solo, fusion, or Grand Sitar Symphony – I play for weddings, concerts, or any special event.
Studio & Album Recordings - Available for world music album collaboration and epic fusion sitar music sessions.
Soulful Bhajans & Tributes - From a soulful Meera bhajan sitar piece to paying tribute to legends like SPB sir, I play from the heart.
