Tabla Lineage and Guru-Shishya Tradition
My tabla journey is rooted in the wisdom of my Gurus. This is a look at the tradition that shapes every beat I play and every lesson I teach.
A blessed moment on Guru Poornima, embracing my Guruji, Pt. Yogesh Samsi ji, on stage. A Guru's blessing is the greatest reward for any disciple.
Another angle of that heartfelt moment with my Guru. His embrace feels like a transfer of knowledge, blessings, and immense love.
My Sashtang Pranaam to the legend, Ustad Zakir Hussain ji. He elevated the tabla to the world stage, and like many, I consider myself an Eklavya, inspired by his brilliance.
A cherished memory of meeting the maestro, Ustad Zakir Hussain ji. To be in the presence of such a legend is a lesson in humility and artistry.
A candid conversation with my Guruji in San Francisco. Learning from him extends beyond the classroom; every moment is an opportunity to absorb his wisdom.
Here, my Guruji, Pt. Yogesh Samsi ji, shares a piece of music with me on his phone. Technology changes, but the tradition of a Guru sharing knowledge with his shishya remains eternal.
Listening intently as my Guruji speaks during a concert. Sharing the stage with him is the highest honor and a profound learning experience.
A clip from a concert in Satara where I had the privilege of performing alongside my Guruji. The joy of playing in sync with your Guru is indescribable.
Glimpses from a show in Bengaluru where I performed with my Guruji and the great flautist Pt. Pravin Godkhindi ji. These collaborations are where music truly comes alive.
In the green room in Bangalore with Guruji. Even the moments before a concert are filled with learning, as he prepares himself and his instrument.
About My Gurus & Musical Lineage
When you learn tabla, you are not just learning hand movements. You are inheriting a language. In my studio, we do not just practice compositions. We discuss the logic behind every bol, just as my Guruji, Pt. Yogesh Samsi ji, taught me. This is how the real sound and the spirit of the instrument are passed down to the next generation.
The foundation of my music lies in the dedication to the Guru-Shishya tradition. My training under Pt. Yogesh Samsi ji, a direct disciple of Ustad Allarakha Khan Sahab, has given me a deep understanding of the Punjab Gharana. It is this lineage that influences my approach to every Kayda, Rela, and Gat I perform or teach.
The Importance of Lineage
In our tradition, music is not just a skill but a shared legacy. When I perform or teach, I carry the guidance of my Gurus. Whether I am playing traditional pieces from the Delhi or Farukhabad Gharanas, or exploring improvisation with an accompanist, the goal remains the same: honesty in sound.
Learning the Traditional Way
Students who join my classes in Mumbai learn that rhythm is a discipline. We focus on:
- Clear Tone: Understanding the difference between open and closed strokes.
- Traditional Composition: Mastering the structure of Punjab Gharana.
- The 'Why' of Rhythm: Learning the mathematics and the soul behind the bols.
I encourage my students to approach the instrument with the same reverence I show my Gurus. Riyaz is the only path forward. If you are serious about understanding this art form beyond the surface, I am happy to share what I have learned.
Yashwant Vaishnav
I am a student first, a teacher second. My foundation comes from years of dedicated learning under Pt. Yogesh Samsi ji, and I pass those same traditional methods to my students in Mumbai. I am always happy to welcome new seekers who want to walk this path.
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