Rishab Rikhiram Sharma announces 10-city India tour: Know full schedule here

New Delhi: As India experiences a vibrant renaissance in the live music industry with classical music gaining more mainstream appreciation, Rishab Rikhiram Sharma, the youngest and last disciple of the legendary Pandit Ravi Shankar, and a scion of the esteemed Rikhi Ram musical instrument dynasty, announces India’s biggest ever cutting-edge classical music national tour under brand new IP Team Innovation Cultural.

Titled ‘HSBC presents Sitar For Mental Health’, this immersive, multi-sensory 10-city tour presented and produced by Team Innovation and District by Zomato, is poised to redefine the connection between Indian music and wellness modalities. The family-friendly landmark tour designed to delight audiences across all ages will travel to cities such as New Delhi, Mumbai, Indore, Ahmedabad, Kolkata, Pune, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Jaipur and Chandigarh between April and May of 2025.

The internet’s favourite sitar maestro will present his groundbreaking ‘Sitar For Mental Health’ series to a nation increasingly embracing the therapeutic power of music. This tour, his most ambitious to date, follows successful engagements in the US and Canada and arrives at a time when data reveals a significant upswing in classical music consumption among millennials and Gen Z. Sharma’s innovative approach seamlessly weaves the rich traditions of Indian classical music with contemporary techniques, creating a unique and immersive experience. Audiences can anticipate a captivating fusion of traditional ragas and modern musical influences, showcasing Sharma’s artistic evolution. The program will feature new compositions alongside beloved works like the evocative ‘Shiv Kailash’, inspired by the serenity of the Himalayas, and the dynamic ‘Chanakya’and ‘Tandavam’ a vibrant exploration of rhythm and energy. Each performance promises an emotionally resonant journey, appealing to both seasoned music enthusiasts and those seeking a deeper connection through sound. This tour will underscore Sharma’s commitment to exploring the intersection of music, mindfulness and mental well-being in the 21st century.

Rishab Rikhiram Sharma states, “We are witnessing a fascinating cultural shift. Ancient ragas are resonating with contemporary listeners in profoundly new ways. Classical music isn’t just surviving in the digital age; it’s thriving. Young people are increasingly drawn to the transformative power of these age-old melodies, recognizing the emotional depth and resonance they offer, often absent in much of today’s music.”

Rahul Ganjoo, CEO, District by Zomato elaborates on the partnership and further says, “We are thrilled to present Rishab Rikhiram Sharma’s Sitar for Mental Health tour across India. This journey unites generations, blending the timeless essence of Indian classical music with the modern pursuit of well-being. Our collaboration with Team Innovation perfectly aligns with District’s mission to create meaningful connections through exceptional experiences. We believe this tour will not only offer a unique musical experience but also deepen appreciation for the rich heritage of Indian classical music and its profound link to mental well-being.”

Mohit Bijlani, Founder, Team Innovation, underscores the tour’s cultural significance and adds, “We stand at the threshold of a transformative chapter in India’s musical history. Classical music has transcended traditional boundaries, evolving into a dynamic force within mainstream culture. At Team Innovation Cultural, we understand that today’s audiences crave authentic and meaningful experiences. This tour embodies that fusion of tradition and innovation, demonstrating the enduring power and relevance of classical music in the 21st century.”

The 120-minute performance will offer a reimagined concert experience, seamlessly weaving the enchanting sounds of the sitar with innovative sound healing techniques. Each event will create a unique, contemplative atmosphere where timeless ragas intersect with contemporary wellness practices, highlighting the profound ability of classical music to address modern challenges, particularly in the realm of mental health. The tour aspires to invite audiences to explore the therapeutic potential of these ancient musical forms, offering a powerful and deeply moving experience.

Rishab Rikhiram Sharma India Tour tickets and schedule

The pre-sale tickets for the tour will be live on the District app by Zomato on February 14, 2025, at 4 PM. This presale offer is available exclusively for HSBC Credit Card holders. General ticket sales will begin on February 16, 2025, at 4 PM. Ticket prices start from INR 1499/- onwards. The tour is sponsored by HSBC.

Tour Schedule:

New Delhi – Sunday, 6 April 2025
Mumbai – Sunday, 13 April 2025
Pune – Friday, 18 April 2025
Ahmedabad – Sunday, 20 April 2025
Bengaluru – Sunday, 27 April 2025
Jaipur – Friday, 2 May 2025
Hyderabad – Sunday, 4 May 2025
Indore – Friday, 9 May 2025
Chandigarh – Sunday, 11 May 2025
Kolkata – Sunday 18 May 2025

Who is Rishab Rikhiram Sharma?

Descended from an illustrious lineage of musical instrument artisans, Rishab Rikhiram Sharma traces his heritage to a prestigious atelier established by his grandfather in 1920 in pre-partition Lahore. Born in New Delhi, Sharma embarked on his journey with the sitar at age ten, ultimately earning the distinguished honour of being the final protégé of the virtuoso Pandit Ravi Shankar.

In a testament to his artistry, Sharma received an invitation to perform his innovative ‘Sitar For Mental Health’ experience at the White House during President Joe Biden’s 2022 Diwali celebrations, garnering recognition on the President’s official social media platforms. His meteoric rise in the musical sphere culminated in a groundbreaking performance at Houston’s NRG Stadium, where he became the first sitarist of his generation to command a solo performance before 60,000 live spectators and an extraordinary television audience exceeding 500 million viewers. Sharma’s remarkable repertoire includes performances at the Paris Olympics’ closing ceremony, honouring the Indian contingent, and a commemorative appearance at the 50th anniversary of the Woodstock Festival, where he paid homage to his legendary mentor.

His advocacy for mental health awareness through music has earned him recognition at the United Nations, where he was acknowledged in the World Mental Health Leadership proclamation for his pioneering initiative, ‘Sitar For Mental Health’. A graduate of Queens College at The City University of New York, Sharma holds dual credentials in Economics and Music Production, reflecting his multifaceted expertise in both artistic and academic domains.