Journey to the Tabla

 I am fortunate to be born into a family of musicians.

I grew up with 2-3 hours of live music being performed at home every day. I got my start when my father and my uncle would ask me to play basic theka to accompany their singing practice or riyaz sessions.

So, while I did not take any formal lessons, playing tabla came naturally to me through these early encouragements and opportunities at home. I did take some formal lessons, first from my father’s friends and then, after moving to the US, from different teachers. I also incorporated a lot of self-learning through listening and trying to break it down so I could recreate it.

I have been fortunate in getting support throughout my learning journey, which continues today and everyday.