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Punjab Gharana Tabla: Guru-Shishya Parampara

bySurjeet SinghTravels to venues across Mumbai Metropolitan AreaStarts from15,000 Per Performance (Max 3 Hours)View full gallery

Tabla is more than just music; it is a spiritual journey. This collection reflects the sacred bond of the Guru-Shishya Parampara that guides every beat I play.

Happy Guru Purnima to my Ustad ji, Joginder Singh Ji. Charan sparsh. He is my guide, my teacher, and my inspiration. Everything I am is because of his blessings.

With the legendary Ustad Fazal Qureshi ji, son of my Dada Guru Ustad Allarakha Khan Sahab. It is an honor to be in the presence of such greatness.

Ustadji. This image captures the moment I sought blessings from the divine Ustad Zakir Hussain ji. I am shattered and speechless at his loss. Nothing will ever be the same.

A moment of pure joy and blessing with Ustad Zakir Hussain ji. His smile was a source of nourishment for all musicians. His legacy is eternal.

My Dada Guru, the great Ustad Allarakha Khan sahib, Khalifa of the Punjab Gharana. His contribution to the world of tabla is immeasurable, and I am a humble student of his lineage.

On Guru Purnima, I pay my respects to my Guru, Ustad Joginder Singh Ji. The bond between a Guru and shishya is the soul of our tradition.

About My Roots: Guru-Shishya Parampara

In the Punjab Gharana, the bond between teacher and student determines the authenticity of the rhythm. When you book me, you are getting that same disciplined approach I use in my daily riyaaz, ensuring that the bols, kayada, and taals are played with the exact traditional phrasing handed down by Ustad Joginder Singh Ji.

The Guru-Shishya Parampara is the heartbeat of Indian classical music. It is not just about learning a technique; it is about absorbing a way of life, a specific sound, and a respect for the instrument that cannot be taught in a classroom.

My training is rooted in the Punjab Gharana, a lineage known for its powerful, resonant open-handed style. When I perform, I am carrying the weight and the blessings of my Dada Guru, Ustad Allarakha Khan Sahib, and my Guru, Ustad Joginder Singh Ji. Every composition I present—be it a complex Kayada or a crisp Rela—is an attempt to keep this tradition pure and alive.

What this means for your event is authenticity. Whether you are looking for a traditional solo baithak or a sensitive accompaniment for a vocal or instrumental performance, I do not just play notes. I focus on the 'Theka' and the rhythmic dialogue that respects the lead artist. I arrive early for every show, not just for sound checks, but to settle into the space and ensure the tabla is tuned to the exact scale of the performance.

I am based in Mumbai and Delhi, but I travel across India for those who value this tradition. If you appreciate the nuances of a well-played Jhaptaal or the mathematical beauty of a Chakradar Tihai, I am here to bring that experience to your stage.

Proud student of the Punjab Gharana.Approved by the tribe
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Surjeet Singh

Travels to venues across Mumbai Metropolitan AreaStarts from 15,000 Per Performance (Max 3 Hours)

I'm Surjeet, and for me, tabla is everything. My playing is rooted in the lessons passed down by my Guru, Ustad Joginder Singh Ji, and the great Punjab Gharana tradition. I don't just perform; I try to speak through the bols with sincerity.

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