NCPA Citi Nad Ninad: From Our Archives

Listening Session on the Artistry of Alla Rakha

Guided by Yogesh Samsi

This event makes available to lovers of Indian music some of the priceless archival recordings of the great masters from the archives of NCPA. 

Alla Rakha Qureshi (1919 - 2000) was trained in tabla under Miyan Qadir Baksh, the virtuoso of Punjab gharana. He was also trained in classical vocal music by Ashiq Ali Khan of Patiala gharana. After a short stint with the All India Radio and the Bombay Film Industries, he went back to the world of classical music and popularised the art of tabla, playing across the globe with several north and south Indian musicians. His musical partnership with sitar maestro Ravi Shankar was particularly successful, delighting audiences in the West with his percussive wizardry, not only as an uncanny accompanist with flawless timing and sensitivity but also as a soloist where he was a master of improvisation. A devoted music teacher, Alla Rakha trained his three sons including the inimitable maestro Zakir Hussin and hosts of other students.

This session will be guided by one of Alla Rakha’s senior disciples, Yogesh Samsi, the son of Agra gharana stalwart, Dinkar Kaikini. Today, Yogesh Samsi is known for his ability to perform tabla solo as well as accompany both vocal and instrumental music. As a Guru, his pedagogical approach aims to nurture and evolve the ideology of the Punjab gharana.

The session will include excerpts of some of Alla Rakha’s recordings specially made during 1973 and 1976 at the NCPA, featuring talas: Dhamar, Pancham-Sawari, Teental, Jhaptal and more. Highlighting the uniqueness of the maestro’s musical style, Yogesh Samsi will also share some interesting anecdotes about this celebrated master-musician.

An NCPA Presentation

Supported by Citi

Entry free on first come first served basis.

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