Punjabi University Spotlights Unsung Sitar Legends of Bollywood

A groundbreaking study conducted at Punjabi University has uncovered the significant yet often unrecognized contributions of sitar players in shaping the sound of Hindi film music during the 1950s to 1970s. Led by researcher Vanita under the supervision of Prof Nivedita Uppal, the study analyzes the creative use of the sitar by various music directors and the valuable performances of both renowned and lesser-known sitar artists.

Prof Uppal emphasizes that this is the first research of its kind, not only providing a detailed musical analysis but also bringing to the forefront the work of sitar players whose vibrant performances have enriched numerous Bollywood songs over the decades. The study acknowledges the contributions of iconic figures like Pandit Ravi Shankar and Ustad Rais Khan, as well as unsung talents such as Jai Ram Acharya, Arvind Mayekar and Sunil Das.

Vanita, the researcher, underscores the widespread popularity of Hindi film music and attributes it not only to the music directors and singers, but also to the invaluable input of these skilled instrumentalists. The study holds immense social and cultural significance, introducing these sitar maestros to a new generation of music enthusiasts and researchers.