Introduction
India’s live music landscape is evolving, with classical music gaining more visibility in mainstream spaces. Rishab Rikhiram Sharma, a disciple of Pandit Ravi Shankar, has announced a national classical music tour under the new platform Team Innovation Cultural.
Who is Rishab Rikhiram Sharma?
Rishab Rikhiram Sharma is a globally recognized sitar virtuoso, deeply rooted in the traditions of Indian classical music. Trained under Pandit Ravi Shankar, Sharma has carved a niche for himself by blending classical elements with modern interpretations. His performances are known for their emotional depth and mesmerizing compositions.
About “Sitar For Mental Health”
Titled Sitar For Mental Health, the 10-city tour, presented and produced by Team Innovation, will take place between April and May 2025. It will cover New Delhi, Mumbai, Indore, Ahmedabad, Kolkata, Pune, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Jaipur, and Chandigarh.
The Significance of Classical Music in Mental Wellness
The tour comes at a time when classical music is being explored by younger audiences, as reflected in recent streaming data. Sitar For Mental Health aims to connect Indian classical music with wellness practices. Sharma has previously performed this project in the United States and Canada, and this tour marks its largest presentation in India so far.
Why Classical Music is Gaining Popularity?
With the rise of digital streaming platforms, younger audiences are exploring classical music like never before. Streaming data indicates a growing interest in ancient ragas, as people seek meaningful and immersive musical experiences beyond contemporary trends.
Statements from Rishab Rikhiram Sharma
Speaking about the initiative, Sharma notes the increasing interest in classical music among younger listeners. “Ancient ragas are resonating with contemporary audiences in new ways. Many people are discovering the emotional depth of these melodies, which offer something distinct from modern musical trends,” he says.
Insights from Mohit Bijlani of Team Innovation
Mohit Bijlani, founder of Team Innovation, highlights how classical music is reaching wider audiences. “We see a shift in how people engage with traditional music. There is a growing demand for experiences that combine heritage with contemporary expression, and this tour aims to reflect that balance,” he says.
The 120-minute performances will feature sitar compositions alongside sound-based wellness techniques. The program is designed to create a reflective atmosphere, exploring how classical music can contribute to well-being.
Ticket Availability and Pricing
Tickets for the tour are available on www.district.in, starting at INR 1499. The tour is sponsored by HSBC.
Team Innovation Cultural, launched in December 2024 by Team Innovation, focuses on blending India’s artistic traditions with contemporary approaches. Its events aim to create space for dialogue, collaborations, and audience engagement while supporting the continuity of classical and folk art forms.
Conclusion
The “Sitar For Mental Health” tour is a groundbreaking effort to bring Indian classical music into the limelight, making it more relevant and accessible to contemporary audiences. With a mission to promote mental wellness through melody, Rishab Rikhiram Sharma is not just performing—he’s pioneering a movement.
