A Musical Journey Toward Wellness
Published on 18 Apr 2025, 3:34 am. More than a decade has passed since sitar maestro and Bharat Ratna Pandit Ravi Shankar introduced 10-year-old Rishab Rikhiram Sharma on stage as his disciple. As fate would have it, Rishab is now recognized as the last disciple of the late sitar legend. Years later, Rishab continues to amplify the beauty and significance of the sitar through performances worldwide, including a memorable one at the White House in the U.S.
Rishab’s originals have become staples on various playlists, with popular tracks such as Chanakya, Kautilya, and Shiv Kailash attracting significant streaming numbers. His latest endeavor, the Sitar for Mental Health Tour, quickly establishes him as a prominent musician connecting Indian classical music with mental health awareness. The 2025 India tour, featuring shows in Delhi and Mumbai, has been well received, drawing many Bollywood celebrities including Mira Kapoor, Bhumi Pednekar, and Shriya Pilgaonkar.
Exploring New Musical Horizons
In an interview, Rishab discussed the anticipation surrounding his current tour:
‘It’s going to be the biggest tour that we’ve done till now, but it is also the biggest sitar performance that anyone has seen. The focus remains on promoting mental health wellness through sitar and ancient sound medicine known as raga therapy. I’m excited to release a new song called Temple Burn in the coming weeks.’
A Personal Journey
Rishab emphasized the significance of sharing personal experiences related to mental health:
‘Conversation is crucial to normalize something that’s often stigmatized. I’ve openly discussed my struggles with anxiety and depression, highlighting the importance of seeking help and supporting one another.’
Mindful Moments
When asked about the pre-show meditation, Rishab expressed enthusiasm:
‘Yes! We have a guided meditation, where I will play the surbahar, which is crafted for deep exploration of ragas. This instrument allows for a profound meditative experience.’
Future of Music and Wellness
Rishab sees a growing interest in the synergy between music and mental health:
‘There’s a lot of potential for using sound as medicine. I believe personalized guided meditations via AI could play a significant role in future therapeutic practices.’
A Stylish Performance
Rishab’s unique fashion sense is also a part of his performances:
‘I enjoy sketching designs for outfits and collaborating with various designers. This year, we are focusing on creating unique looks for every show.’
An Unforgettable Experience
Reflecting on performing at the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Patan Durbar, Rishab recounted:
‘It was an honor to perform there. I felt so much love from the audience in Nepal and can’t wait to return.’
The Importance of Voice
Regarding his vocal contributions, Rishab hinted at an upcoming project:
‘Surprisingly, I have a whole vocal album that remains unreleased. Music is about what comes from the heart, and I aim to keep it simple and melodious.’
Conclusion
Rishab Rikhiram Sharma’s journey through music and mental health continues to inspire many, as he merges tradition with modern awareness. How will his innovative approaches shape the future of music therapy?
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