At the Mahindra Drivers of Change 2026, seventh-generation musician Mehtab Ali Niazi from the Bendi Bazaar Gharana showcased his mastery of the electronic sitar, blending classical Indian music with modern technology. Niazi, who was blessed by the late Ustad Zakir Hussain, discussed his musical journey that began at age four, initially learning the santoor before switching to sitar. He explained his initial reluctance to adopt the electronic sitar, stating that he realized ‘change is the only constant’ and wanted to help the newer generation ‘get back to our roots’. The electronic sitar retains the traditional meend, a unique bending of notes not found in guitars, while producing tones similar to an electric guitar. During an interactive session, Niazi interpreted various emotions—grief, joy, romance, and bhakti—through his music. He performed a composition in Raag Bhairavi called ‘Inherited’, originally composed by his father, demonstrating how traditional melodies resonate on electronic instruments. India Today recognized Niazi in its Next Hundred Achievers list in 2019.
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