Album Notes

Pt Vikash Maharaj is one of the leading sarod performers of India. Born as a 14th generation musician into the oldest and most widely respected Banaras gharana (Indian musical family) in 1957 in Varanasi, he received his early education within his Gharana as a Tabla performer from his late father Bengal Tiger Pt. Nanhku Maharaj.

As a teenager, Vikash developed a natural inclination towards learning the Sarod. His mother inspired him to change instruments and organized Sarod lessons from the late Guru Shri Rajesh Chandra Moetra ji of the prestigious Maihar Senia Gharana. Like both of his grandfathers, the late Pt.Bade Ram Das ji and the late Pt. Kanthe Maharaj ji, his maternal uncle, Padma Vibhushan Pt. Kishan Maharaj ji, and late Grand teacher, Ustad Bade Allauddin Khan sahib, one can see in Pt. Vikash Maharaj’s Sarod recital the excellent combination of Swar (Tone) and Laya (Rhythm) that has been passed down from generation to generation.

As well as holding onto his family’s tradition, Pt.Vikash Maharaj is also well known for his unique approach to the instrument. Having his early education focused on Tala (Indian Rhythm), and having devoted himself to two Gharanas, he has a wide understanding of music that sets him apart from other performers. From this special education, the melody and fluency he expresses on his instrument speaks of deep emotions and moods with clarity and precision rarely heard on the Sarod. His interest and knowledge of the healing benefits of music make listening to his Sarod a truly powerful experience.

Pt. Vikash Maharaj is a selected artist from I.C.C.R. (Foreign Ministry Govt of India). He has also featured National and International Radio and T.V.