Jazz & World Music Tabla Collaborations
I believe music has no borders. Here is a look at my work blending the traditional tabla with global genres like jazz, world percussion, and instrumental fusion.
A clip from my solo performance at the International Jazz Festival, which was dedicated to my idol, Ustad Zakir Hussain ji. It was an honour to share the stage with the legendary Sivamani ji, who joined me at the end.
A moment of pure musical connection with the brilliant jazz harpist Susan Mazer. The conversation between the harp and tabla creates a unique texture that I find incredibly inspiring.
A focused moment during the 'Jazz meets Kathak' concert at the Royal Opera House. The energy on stage was electric as we blended Indian classical rhythms with the improvisational spirit of jazz.
The full ensemble of artists for the 'Jazz meets Kathak' show at the Royal Opera House. It was a privilege to collaborate with such a diverse and talented group of musicians and dancers.
The official poster for 'Dancing Feet: Jazz Meets Kathak' at Prithvi Theatre. These events, curated by legends like Louiz Banks, are so important for fostering creative fusion music in India.
The poster for the International Jazz Day tribute to Ustad Zakir Hussain. Being part of a lineup with maestros like Louiz Banks and A. Sivamani was a deeply humbling and inspiring experience.
Another poster from the International Jazz Day event, showcasing the incredible array of talent that came together to celebrate jazz and fusion music. I am grateful to be a part of this community.
The event poster for our 'Jazz meets Kathak' performance at the Royal Opera House. These collaborations bring together different art forms to create a multi-sensory experience for the audience.
With my fellow artists for the 'Jazz meets Kathak' show. The camaraderie and shared passion backstage are just as important as the performance itself.
A selfie with the wonderful sitarist Gaurav Mazumdar dada after our performance at the Ragas Live Festival in Brooklyn, New York. It's always a joy to connect with fellow musicians on the road.
About Jazz & World Music Collaborations
When I collaborate with jazz musicians or world artists, I focus on 'sawal-jawab'—the call and response. It isn't just about keeping time; it is about matching the phrasing of a harp or saxophone so the tabla feels like an active conversation, not just background rhythm.
My approach to fusion is deeply rooted in the Indian classical tradition while staying open to the improvisational spirit of jazz. I do not just add a beat; I look for the melodic cues in the harp, woodwinds, or piano and weave my rhythms to complement them.
At venues like the Royal Opera House in Mumbai or international stages like Pioneer Works in Brooklyn, the thrill comes from real-time musical dialogue. Whether we are blending Kathak rhythm patterns with jazz improvisations or exploring world percussion textures, I ensure the tabla retains its unique character while serving the song.
If you are looking to add an Indian percussive layer to your own music, I am comfortable with both in-person jams and remote studio recording sessions. I can work with click tracks for pop and hip-hop or engage in free-flowing live sets. Let’s connect to see how we can bring a new rhythmic texture to your project.
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