Rishab Rikhiram Sharma Announces India's Biggest Classical Music Tour

India is currently witnessing a dynamic renaissance in its live music scene, with classical music gaining newfound mainstream recognition. In this exciting atmosphere, Rishab Rikhiram Sharma, the youngest and final disciple of the legendary Pandit Ravi Shankar, and a proud heir to the prestigious Rikhi Ram musical instrument legacy, is set to unveil India’s largest-ever classical music national tour. This tour will be presented under the brand new IP Team  Innovation culture.

Presented by Team Innovation, India's leading live entertainment company, the 'Sitar For Mental Health' 10-city tour is set to redefine the relationship between classical music and well-being. This family-friendly tour, visiting cities like New Delhi, Mumbai, Indore, Ahmedabad, Kolkata, Pune, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Jaipur, and Chandigarh in April-May 2025, will captivate audiences of all ages.

This tour comes at a key moment, with a rise in classical music popularity among millennials and Gen Z, as shown by streaming data. Sharma’s approach blends Indian classical traditions with modern wellness practices. After successful performances in the U.S. and Canada, this India tour is the most ambitious presentation of ‘Sitar For Mental Health’ yet.

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."

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 performances blend sitar music with sound healing techniques, creating a unique, contemplative atmosphere. Timeless ragas meet contemporary wellness practices, showcasing classical music's ability to address modern challenges, especially in mental health. The tour invites audiences to explore the therapeutic power of ancient music for a deeply moving experience.

Launched in December 2024, Team Innovation Cultural is a platform bridging India’s heritage with contemporary art. It fosters cultural sustainability and innovation by promoting dialogue between traditional and modern art forms. Its inaugural event, led by spiritual mentor Radhika Das, highlighted this mission, offering a transformative experience. Moving forward, Team Innovation Cultural will create immersive experiences, encourage collaborations, and develop sustainable preservation models to drive a cultural renaissance.

Rishab Rikhiram Sharma hails from a renowned family of musical instrument makers, established by his grandfather in 1920, Lahore. A sitar prodigy from age 10, he became the youngest disciple of the legendary Pandit Ravi Shankar. In 2022, he performed his ‘Sitar For Mental Health’ set at the U.S. President’s Diwali celebration, even featured on President Joe Biden’s Instagram. Rishab made history as the first sitarist of his generation to perform solo at NGR Stadium, Houston, drawing 60,000 live attendees and 500+ million viewers. He also honored Pandit Ravi Shankar at the Woodstock 50 Reunion. Rishab holds a degree in music production and economics from Queens College, CUNY.