Our Instruments
Each instrument carries centuries of tradition, devotion, and the living breath of raga
In the classical tradition, each instrument is considered a living entity — a deity of sound gifted to humanity. Naad Sutra performs with instruments that have been crafted by master artisans and tuned by decades of devotional practice.
Tabla
The tabla — twin drums of unmatched complexity — is the rhythmic soul of Hindustani classical music. Its language of bols (syllables) creates intricate rhythmic structures called talas, which serve as the mathematical and emotional backbone of every raga performance.
Our founder Taalanjay Thakur's tabla speaks in the deep, resonant voice of the Banaras Gharana — known for its powerful bass strokes, complex laykari (rhythmic play), and improvisational brilliance that communicates directly with the soul.
Bansuri
The bansuri — a simple bamboo flute — is one of the oldest musical instruments in human civilization, and one of the most spiritually potent. Described in ancient scripture as the instrument of Lord Krishna himself, its voice can evoke the deepest longing of the human heart.
Raghav Krishnan's bansuri work draws listeners into meditative states through the manipulation of breath, embouchure, and finger technique, creating a tone so pure it seems to emerge from silence itself.
Santoor
The santoor — a trapezoidal hammered dulcimer with 72 strings — produces a shimmering, celestial sound unlike any other instrument in the Indian classical tradition. Originating from the Sufi music of Kashmir, it carries within its resonance the mystical longing of the divine.
Priya Mehta's mastery of the santoor is characterized by an extraordinary delicacy of touch and a rare ability to sustain melodic phrases that seem to float in the air long after the mallets have left the strings.
Sitar
The sitar — with its curved neck, 20 resonating strings, and distinctive drone chambers — is perhaps the most internationally recognized voice of Indian classical music. Its ability to bend notes through meend (glissando), produce complex textures through sympathetic strings, and sustain melodic arches makes it one of the world's most expressive instruments.
Arjun Sharma's sitar playing represents the finest tradition of the Imdadkhani Gharana — a lineage known for its architectural grandeur, technical fearlessness, and emotional profundity.
Fusion Ensemble
Naad Sutra's fusion offerings represent a fearless creative leap — a dialogue between India's ancient musical wisdom and the global contemporary soundscape. Meera Nair leads these explorations on Carnatic and Western violin, supported by light percussion, ethnic keyboards, and melodic bass.
The result is music that is neither a dilution of tradition nor a mere novelty, but a genuine synthesis — where ragas find expression through jazz harmonies, where tala meets electronic minimalism, and where the ancient and the modern discover they were always speaking the same language.
Sarangi
The sarangi — carved from a single block of wood and resonating with multiple sympathetic strings — is often considered the instrument closest to the human voice. Its deeply expressive tone carries centuries of emotion, devotion, and storytelling.
Within Naad Sutra, the sarangi introduces an intimate and reflective dimension, capable of evoking longing, romance, and transcendence in a single phrase.
Sarod
The sarod — known for its fretless metal fingerboard — produces a deep, introspective tone that flows like a calm river. Its ability to glide seamlessly between notes creates a powerful emotional experience.
In Naad Sutra’s ensemble, the sarod adds strength and gravitas, shaping ragas with both precision and soulful depth.
Violin
The violin is one of the most versatile instruments — equally expressive in Indian classical and Western traditions. Its voice can move effortlessly between devotion, romance, and intensity.
In Naad Sutra, the violin connects worlds — blending ragas with harmonies to create a truly global musical experience.
Electric Guitar
The electric guitar adds modern intensity and texture to Naad Sutra’s performances — capable of soaring leads, rhythmic drive, and ambient soundscapes.
When fused with Indian classical structures, it creates a bold dialogue between tradition and innovation.
Bass Guitar
The bass guitar forms the foundation of modern ensemble music, connecting rhythm and harmony with subtle strength.
In Naad Sutra, it adds groove, depth, and movement — shaping the energy of every performance.
Keyboard
The keyboard is capable of creating entire musical environments — from orchestral layers to ambient textures.
It enhances Naad Sutra’s performances by adding depth, harmony, and cinematic richness to every composition.
Handpan
The handpan produces a soft, meditative tone that feels almost spiritual. Each note resonates like a bell, creating a calming atmosphere.
In Naad Sutra, it is used to create ambient openings and immersive musical moments that captivate the audience.