What's Esraj?

It is an instrument used primarily for Hindustani classical compositions. It's a younger variant of the more famous instrument Dilruba (literally translated as 'the robber of the heart'). The esraj (Bengali: এস্রাজ; Hindi: इसराज; English /ˈɛsrʌdʒ/; also called the Indian harp) is a string instrument found in two forms throughout the north, central, and east regions of India. Know more about it from here.

My story

I hold a Junior diploma from Prayag Sangeet Samiti, Prayagraj. My mentor and Guruma has been Shrimati Sewli Basu.

Though I like playing it, I consider it as more of a hobby. Being a musician is a different profession altogether. Like any other field, it requires expertise and life-long dedication for it. Indian classical music is a vast field, and I consider even a lifetime isn't enough to acquire the knowledge of the tradition handed down to us over ages.

Some of my recording

Current generation underrates the huge storehouse of gems that lay inside the treasure box of Indian culture. Influence of western music has subconsciously affected our minds and impregnated the thought that Indian classical music cannot be 'cool'. The youth needs to be made aware that it is 'cool' in it's own way! Our indigenous music has not only been accepted for it's serenity and medical purposes but it is quite a sensation in the West. Pandit Ravi Shankar has established a legacy there and is considered a pop music icon.

One way to spread this to the young adults is to get a fair idea of the contemporary state of music. Since Bollywood and English songs top the playlists of ours, we need to spark interest by presenting these with the help of the instruments of antiquity. Hardcore classical musicians may oppose the fact. However, we need to accept the fact that "Change is the only constant!". I'm in no way against the idea of learning the real music. A fine balance of aesthetics and popularity needs to be maintained for the betterment.

I have made covers of some English songs.

I don't regularly play the instrument nowadays. However, during the vacations I make it a point to play it at least once everyday.

(This portfolio was made for the recruitment process of the SPICMACAY chapter of KIIT University.)