Every Moment With Pandit Ravi Shankar Ji Was A Lesson

From childhood friendships to global arenas, Pt Tanmay Bose reflects on his musical journey, the challenges of the digital era, and the enduring legacy of Indian classical tradition during his recent concert in Hyderabad

- VENNAPUSALA RAMYA

The rhythms of tradition met the breeze of nostalgia when Pt Tanmay Bose returned to Hyderabad for A Soulful Breeze, a concert at Ravindra Bharati hosted by the Jadavpur University Alumni Association. A tabla virtuoso who has shared stages with legends like Pandit Ravi Shankar, Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, and Dr L Subramaniam, he carries within him the rare gift of balancing humility with mastery. Speaking on the sidelines of the performance, the maestro reflected on his long association with the city, his journey in music, and the timeless discipline that Indian classical tradition demands.

Excerpts

Tell us about your visits to Hyderabad.

I have great memories of Hyderabad. I spent many months here during the 1980s when I was training under Ustad Munawar Ali Khan sahib and stayed in Basheer Bagh. Later, in 1999, I came to this very hall for an orchestra composed by Ustad Amjad Ali Khan sahib; we were assisting him. More recently, I performed here in January for Dr L Subramaniam and I have also played at Falaknuma Palace. So yes, Hyderabad is very close to me.

Can you tell us about how your journey in music began?