Quick: Who is the most applauded young sitarist on the global music circuit right now? Arguably, it is Rishab Rikhiram Sharma, 26, the first solo Indian classical musician invited to perform at the Bidens’ famous Diwali White House party in 2022. His backstory is as compelling as his music. Even more so, considering India’s current strained ties with Donald Trump, the present occupant of the White House.
Here was a young, gifted Delhi-born sitarist holding his own, politely but firmly telling astonished White House staffers why he could not accept the “honour” as initially conceived. Ignorant American officials had to be briefed on the deep cultural and spiritual significance of Indian classical music. Patiently, Rishab explained that a sitarist does not play standing up—this was not a guitar to be casually strummed at the door to welcome VVIPs. He requested, instead, for a raised platform with proper bolsters and seating. The stage, he insisted, must be elevated, in reverence to Saraswati—the goddess of learning. He also made it clear that he was not there to provide background music for amusement while the guests enjoyed a lavish spread, but to be heard as an artiste. Rishab won! His dignified performance that evening was respectfully received and warmly applauded.
Rishab Rikhiram Sharma
Music runs in his DNA. Rishab is the fourth generation born into the famed Rikhiram family of master luthiers, celebrated for crafting fine instruments. At 11, his father took him to meet Pandit Ravi Shankar, then auditioning promising sitarists for his school. Rishab played ‘Raga Rasiya’, Ravi Shankar’s personal favourite. At the end of the performance, Ravi Shankar told Rishab’s father he wanted Rishab as his disciple. Only later did he point out to the overwhelmed boy where he had gone wrong! It remains Rishab’s most transformative moment. Ravi Shankar passed away two years later, but his legacy was deeply embedded by then.
Soon after completing his schooling in Delhi, Rishab left for New York and majored in music and economics. Today, the American citizen is invited to perform at prestigious music festivals like Woodstock’s 50th reunion. His shows are invariably sold out. What makes Rishab stand out is not just his music, but his presence—film star looks, flowing anarkalis paired with antique Jadau jewellery, mehendi-adorned hands, and a calm, almost saintly stage aura.
Honestly, I had not heard of him till my daughter mentioned his concerts in Mumbai and Pune. She insisted we catch him live the next time he performs nearby. By now I was hooked. He is such a good raconteur, too. One anecdote in particular stood out: just hours before a concert, Rishab accidentally dropped his precious sitar and cracked it. That his wonderful father managed to fix the instrument in time for the concert says a lot about their relationship. He said the mended sitar sounded even more melodious that evening.
Rishab’s unique positioning as a modern-day musician, who has adopted the sitar as an instrument for healing, makes his music that much more poignant and powerful. I have been listening to some of his spellbinding concerts where a lot of attention is paid to create the right setting with aesthetic lights and sets, providing a regal backdrop to his mood-elevating performance.
Rishab has bashfully admitted he would like to try his hand in cinema—as both actor and director. Well, he certainly has what it takes in terms of charisma. Dating rumours suggest his co-star could be Sanya Malhotra. If true, it is a romance as lyrical as ‘Raga Rasiya’, which depicts Radha and Krishna in playful conversation.
Well, what say, Rishab?
@DeShobhaa @shobhaade