India's First Electric Sitar Debuts on Tour

Neo-classical musician Rishab Rikhiram Sharma will perform on India's first LED-enhanced electric sitar, SITARA, during the India leg of his 10-city 'Sitar for Mental Health Tour 2026'. Conceptualized by his father, master luthier Sanjay Sharma, SITARA represents a significant evolution for the sitar. It builds upon previous experimental models from Rikhi Ram's Music, incorporating modern sound design, portability, and integrated LED lighting.

SITARA is designed for contemporary musical spaces, enabling sitarists to perform modern arrangements in genres like Bollywood, fusion, and world music. Its compact, ergonomic design, developed with touring musicians in mind, features a collapsible frame and an active pickup system compatible with amplifiers and processors. The instrument retains the tonal character of a traditional sitar while offering silent practice capabilities.

The 'Sitar for Mental Health Tour 2026' follows successful performances internationally. Scheduled between March and April, the tour begins in Bengaluru and will visit nine other Indian cities, including Mumbai, Pune, and New Delhi. The tour aims to resonate with younger audiences through meditative soundscapes and transformative live experiences.