At 16, I Saw Timelessness in Music

Ustad Bahauddin Dagar knows how to engage mind, heart, and soul as he gently plucks the strings of the Rudra Veena to create mesmerising melodies. The maestro delves into the art of playing the Rudra Veena, interestingly saying, 'Learning this instrument requires undivided attention'

- NITIKA KRISHNA

The Rudra Veena is a unique instrument — few who wield it can evoke its true beauty in the most charming way. But Ustad Bahauddin Dagar, a 20th-generation maestro, does so with poise and meticulous command. In 2012, he was honoured with Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, the highest award.

Sometimes, you can make the most minimal movement, which can create a huge impact," he says. The maestro gives us a unique metaphor: "It is like an elephant, whose foot can crush anything in its path. But at the same time, if this animal walks on dry leaves, he doesn't make a sound."

Unlike the stereotypical maestro who may channel too much gravitas, Ustad Bahauddin keeps his humour intact, quipping, "So, you must play the Rudra Veena carefully — playing it very fast is like a paagal hathi charging at you!"