Budhaditya Mukherjee

Budhaditya Mukherjee playing the sitar

Upholding with great distinction the rich traditions of the Imdadkhani Gharana of Sitar, Pandit Budhaditya Mukherjee's name has long become synonymous with the revered instrument of the sitar. Widely considered as the leading sitarist of his generation, Budhadityaji has received his entire training in the intricate art of Sitar from his illustrious father, Pandit Bimalendu Mukherjee, who is a well-known sitarist and a respected doyen of the Imdadkhani Gharana. His father took the initiative to introduce his son to the world of sitar playing when he was merely 5 years old. Since that formative time, responding to the finesse and depth of his father's profound teachings, Budhaditya's music has blossomed into a unique and captivating lyrical magic that beautifully reflects the 'gayaki ang' on the sitar, characterized by its befitting clarity and emotional resonance.

In 1977, Budhaditya Mukherjee proudly became a first class first graduate in Metallurgical Engineering, earning the esteemed title of gold medal holder. However, even after having achieved such significant laurels in his academic pursuits, his immense love, passion, and dedication to the sitar compelled Budhaditya to devote himself whole-heartedly to mastering this exquisite instrument. Today, he has not only kept alive but also significantly improved and furthered the creative concepts of Ustad Imdad Khan, the legendary musician after whom the gharana is named. In this endeavor, Budhaditya has also played a crucial role in immensely popularizing the rich traditions of the Imdadkhani Gharana. The remarkable depth of his alaap and the intricate nuances of his taankari serve as a profound reflection of his mastery over the sitar, honoring the legacy of his esteemed Guru, his father Pandit Bimalendu Mukherjee.

Having meticulously specialized in the disciplined development of the ragas based on the revered gayaki style of the Gharana, Budhaditya Mukherjee has consistently enthralled audiences far and wide at an impressive total of over 1,526 concerts held within the vibrant borders of India and an additional 1,278 recitals performed abroad across 26 diverse countries. Since he began his illustrious career in 1979, he has graced stages in numerous countries around the globe, including the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the UAE, Armenia, and in nearly all European countries. These remarkable performances also encompass 12 prestigious International Festivals, where he proudly represented India as a solo artist. Notably, on June 30, 1990, Budhaditya Mukherjee made history by becoming the very first musician to perform at the esteemed House of Commons in London, marking a significant milestone in the realm of Indian classical music.

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