Jan 08 2026 to Jan 08 2026 7 p.m.

Where

Bangalore International Centre

7 4th Main Rd, Stage 2, Domlur 560071

Event Description

Three instruments. Three eras. One continuous string of sound.

This lecture–demonstration traces the surprising history of the Rudra Veena, Surbahar, and Sitar: three string instruments that shaped the imagination of Indian classical music across centuries. Moving from the deep, contemplative resonance of early traditions to the expressive possibilities of modern forms, the session reveals how design, repertoire, and aesthetics evolved alongside changing musical worlds.

Guiding this journey is Dr. Jayant Kumar Das, among the very few artists in India proficient in all three instruments, and an A-graded All India Radio artiste on each. Through carefully chosen demonstrations and reflective conversation, he evokes the musical philosophies surrounding these strings, from the gravity of Dhrupad to the subtle refinements of Khayal. Joining him are Abhijit Sarkar on pakhawaj, Mihir Kallianpur on tabla, Sashikala Bhat on vocals, and C. Shivashankar on tanpura.

A listening space where history speaks through sound, and tradition reveals itself anew.

Supported by:

Artists

Jayant Kumar Das
Sitar, Surbahar & Rudra Veena
Dr. Jayant Kumar Das is a respected Hindustani classical musician, known for his command over the Sitar, Surbahar, and Rudra Veena. He holds an ‘A’ grade from All India Radio in all three instruments, reflecting his depth of training and artistry. He has presented lectures and performances internationally, including University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where he also served as a visiting lecturer. As a cultural delegate of the Government of India, he has toured across Europe, offering lecture-demonstrations and concerts in countries such as Serbia and Spain. Dr. Das holds a PhD in Music from Bangalore University and has released albums including Sunada Samarasa and Swapnam. His contributions to Indian classical music have been honoured with awards such as the Aryabhata Cultural Organization Award and the Sangeetha Kala Ravindra Award.

Abhijit Sarkar
Pakhawaj
Abhijit Sarkar is a Pakhawaj artist whose training began under the guidance of Swami Sarvaganandaji Maharaj of Ramakrishna Math, Belur. He initially trained with Sri Apurva Lal Manna in the Lala Kebal Kishan Gharana, and currently continues his learning under maestro Sri Sukhad Munde ji and in Mridang traditions. He has performed at several notable platforms, including the Dhrupad Mela and other respected classical music festivals. Abhijit has also completed Sangeet Bhushan in Pakhawaj from Pracheen Kala Kendra, Chandigarh.

Mihir Kallianpur
Tabla
Mihir Kallianpur began learning tabla at the age of seven under Pt. Prabhakar Betrabet and later continued his advanced training with Ustad Shabbir Nisar, son of the legendary tabla maestro Ustad Shaik Dawood Khan. A dedicated and accomplished musician, he has received awards and scholarships from institutions such as Sursagar, Bangalore, and the Centre for Cultural Resources and Training, New Delhi. Mihir is a B-High graded artist with All India Radio and has performed at several notable music festivals across India and the United States.

Sashikala Bhat
Vocals

C Shivashankar
Tanpura