Highlights
With the generation having half-baked social media trends each passing day, one sitar player has stormed the world not only for his tremendous feats in playing his musical instrument but also for his advocacy of mental health through the art of sitar. Rishabh Rikhiram Sharma is a 25-year-old man from Delhi who transformed the age-old sound of the sitar into a modern tool for mental health. From earning millions of followers on Instagram to playing for prestigious venues like the White House, Rishabh’s story is as inspiring as his music.
A Musical Legacy and Early Training
Coming from the Rikhi Ram family who are known for making instruments for musicians Rishabh was inclined to become a music artist almost by destiny. It was Rishabh’s grandfather who founded the Rikhi Ram Musical Co. in Delhi which has been contributing to the formation of the aesthetic of Indian classical music for generations now, getting the trust of giants of music all across the world. Sanjay Rikhiram Sharma, introduced him to the sitar at the age of 10, a moment that would define his path. With the help of his father, he developed a love and respect for the instruments, instilling the discipline needed to master the art of music.
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Rishabh hit the big time when his raw talent was discovered by the sitar maestro, Ravi Shankar who took the young boy under his wing. Besides, getting expertise in the sitar, Rishabh got the opportunity to imbibe a few basic human qualities like humility, hard work, and dedication.
The Birth of “Sitar for Mental Health”
In 2020 when people were locked down and stressed due to the coronavirus pandemic, Rishabh came up with the “Sitar for Mental Health” initiative. The program resonated globally, integrating live shows and online musical therapy for problems such as anxiety and depression. Personal struggles Rishabh had faced made him extra sensitive towards people who were struggling and using music as an escape; this is because he has not only become an advocate for mental health but also a representation of it.
Through “Sitar for Mental Health,” he has traveled across continents and reached more than 60,000 live audiences and over 500 million online viewers. He usually starts with breathing exercises and group exercises, thus helping the people to establish profound, spiritual contact with themselves as well as the rest of the listeners. These factors have made his concerts and shows not only musicals shows, but also great sessions in healing the community.
A Global Presence
Rishabh became famous on the internet and most recently Clubhouse by sharing his message of well-being with enthusiasts. As his followings grew so did the impact he made, ultimately leading to a memorable 2022 event at the White House Diwali celebration. And that’s when he became the first sitarist to perform solo.
However, Rishabh looking back at his experience says that earlier on during the pandemic he too sought comfort in talking to strangers in the clubhouse, just like many others have. Noting that sometimes people were willing to talk about the issues related to mental health to strangers, he included it in his show. During breaks, he prompts people to come and stand with someone else and talk about life questions such as, “What are you grateful for?” and “What do you regret?”
Traditionalism versus Modernisation
Rishabh’s music is Hindustani Classical fused with Electronic music. He started fusing the beautiful melodies of a sitar with electronic beats after learning music production at City University in New York. This outstanding concept attracts a vast audience, and since the musician composes his songs, traditional Indians and contemporary pop fans would listen to his melodies ‘Chanakya’ and ‘Roslyn’.
His respect for the sitar as a sacred instrument was a lesson instilled in him by his father and hence the proper handling of all musical equipment. “In our culture, Saraswati Mata holds a veena, symbolizing respect for instruments as divine,” he says. This inherent respect when coupled with his desire to try something new and different, has enabled Rishabh to create for himself a very distinctive space that seems to find traction among people all around the world.
A Passionate Voice for Mental Health
Through “Sitar for Mental Health,” Rishabh brought music into the wellness space and also contributed significantly to breaking down the stigma around mental health in India. He broke generational gaps and opened dialogue with audiences and families who might otherwise struggle to understand mental health struggles.
Future Prospects of the Programme “Sitar for Mental Health”
Rishabh Rikhiram Sharma continues a musical movement, which is revolutionizing mental health advocacy in India and globally. His live shows are not just performances, but performances that change lives and his message of compassion amid chaos.
Now he is looking forward to expanding his project, Rishabh’s dream is to spread music therapy all over the world. By every note Rishabh is showcasing that sitar is not only an instrument but a powerful tool for healing.
