Ustad Shahid Parvez Khan stands as one of the world’s greatest living sitar players, a true maestro who masterfully bridges centuries of musical tradition with innovative brilliance.

Born into the seventh generation of the renowned Etawah Gharana — a family devoted to mastering the sitar—Shahid Parvez Khan was destined for musical greatness. His father, Ustad Aziz Khan, recognized his son’s innate talent and began nurturing it from an extraordinarily young age. By the age of eight, Shahid Parvez Khan was already dazzling audiences with his prodigious skill. Today, his performances are transformative experiences, earning him the moniker “The Man with the Singing Sitar” for his unparalleled ability to evoke vocal nuances through his instrument.

Khan’s mastery combines rigorous classical training with groundbreaking techniques, continually pushing the boundaries of what is possible on the sitar. His concerts transcend cultural barriers, transporting listeners through pure, evocative musical emotion.

Throughout his illustrious career, Ustad Shahid Parvez Khan has received numerous accolades, including the prestigious Padma Shri award from the Government of India. His artistry has graced stages around the world, from the grand concert halls of Europe and North America to the vibrant cultural festivals of India, Australia, the Middle East, and beyond.

Perhaps his greatest achievement, however, lies in his role as a teacher and preserver of musical tradition. Through the SPK Academy of Music, he imparts his vast knowledge to the next generation, ensuring the continued flourishing of the sitar’s rich legacy.

Shakir Khan is one of the most promising young exponents of the legendary Etawah Gharana, energetically following in the musical footsteps of his esteemed father and guru, the sitar maestro Ustad Shahid Parvez Khan.

As expected from such a pedigreed musician, Shakir’s talent emerged early. He gave his first public performance at the age of eleven. However, raw talent alone is not sufficient to master the intricate tradition of Indian classical music. Under the meticulous tutelage of his father, Shakir honed his craft through rigorous study, countless hours of practice (riyaaz), and numerous recitals. His dedication bore fruit, and in recent years, Shakir has delivered outstanding performances at prestigious music conferences across India, including the Dover Lane Music Conference (Kolkata), Sawai Gandharva Music Festival (Pune), and the Saptak Music Festival (Ahmedabad), among others. He has also performed extensively on the global stage.

Shakir’s growth as a musician has afforded him the honour of accompanying his father on stage on many occasions, their father-son duet brimming with vibrant energy. His exceptional talent has earned him formal recognition, including a Government of India merit scholarship and first prize at the All India Radio (AIR) Music Competition.

Like his father, Shakir Khan is celebrated for his exquisite sense of sur (melody) and laya (rhythm). Additionally, he possesses a captivating stage presence that effortlessly engages his audience and draws them into his musical world.

Born in Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh, on January 19, 1993, Yashwant Vaishnav’s extraordinary talent and unwavering dedication to the tabla have established him as a prominent figure in India’s classical music scene.

Under the guidance of his father, Shri Rajendra Vaishnav, Yashwant began his musical journey at a young age, laying a strong foundation for his future in classical music. His artistic development was further nurtured by renowned mentors, Dr. Hemant Sachdeva Ji and Pt. Mukund Bhale Ji. Their mentorship not only expanded his musical repertoire but also deepened his understanding of rhythm and melodic structures.

Yashwant’s artistry was further enriched during his time at the ITC Sangeet Research Academy in Kolkata, where he studied under the esteemed Pandit Ulhas Kashalkar Ji. Currently, he continues to refine his craft under the tutelage of Tabla Maestro Pt. Yogesh Samsi Ji, whose guidance has contributed to Yashwant’s signature style—a seamless blend of speed, clarity, and profound appreciation for rhythm.

Yashwant’s technical prowess captivates audiences across diverse musical genres, showcasing the tabla’s versatility. His playing combines fluidity and precision, with remarkable speed, the result of years of dedicated practice and a deep sense of musical expression.