The sitar with its 20 strings has been around for five centuries. But Rishab Rikhiram Sharma's sitar has 640 LED bulbs and looks, in his words, 'like a lightsaber.' He opens concerts by guiding audiences through a pranayam while digital waves and clouds swirl above him, his diamond-studded teeth catching the light because, as he sees it, 'why should only rappers have all the fun?'
Modernizing a Classical Instrument
The 27-year-old has just wrapped up an 11-city India tour with sold-out arenas where three generations sit and sway. His finale at Delhi's DDA Ground in Dwarka last month had the sweep of an international gig, Coldplay if you will, with pyrotechnics, vast backdrops, and radio-controlled LED wristbands across the audience lighting up in sync.
Sharma's innovative approach blends traditional sitar melodies with contemporary technology and wellness practices. By incorporating pranayam breathing exercises into his performances, he creates a meditative atmosphere that appeals to both classical purists and younger audiences seeking unique experiences.
A New Era for the Sitar
His LED-embedded sitar is not just a visual spectacle but also a symbol of his mission to make the instrument relevant again. 'Why should rappers have all the fun?' he asks, referring to his diamond-studded teeth and flashy stage presence. This fusion of old and new has proven successful, with fans ranging from elderly connoisseurs to teenagers attending his shows.
The tour's success suggests a growing appetite for reimagined classical music. Sharma's next steps include international dates and possibly a collaboration with electronic music producers. His vision is clear: to prove that the sitar can be as exciting and modern as any pop or hip-hop act.
