Jaipur: The devastating terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir left the nation in shock and deeply mourning, claiming the lives of several innocent tourists. Across the country, voices rose in condemnation and grief, among them renowned sitarist Rishab Rikhiram Sharma.
Responding to the tragedy, Rishab had announced on Instagram on Friday, April 25, that his upcoming show would be dedicated to honoring the victims of the attack. In his heartfelt message, he had shared, “Sitar for Mental Health in Jaipur this Sunday will be held in the memory of the innocent lives lost in Pahalgam. Prayers. Om Shanti.” His performance was scheduled for Sunday, April 27, in Jaipur.
During his Jaipur show, Rishab Sharma, disciple of Pandit Ravi Shankar, paid a heartfelt tribute to the victims of the Pahalgam attack. Staying true to his classical roots, he performed a series of emotional pieces As a special dedication, he rendered “Raga Kaunsi Kanada,” a personal favorite that he often turns to during difficult times for its healing and meditative quality. Through his sitar, Rishab not only honored the memory of the victims but also reminded the audience of the timeless power of Indian classical music to heal, unite, and uplift.
At the time, Rishab was on the India leg of his globally acclaimed Sitar for Mental Health tour. The youngest and last disciple of Pandit Ravi Shankar, Rishab had launched the tour on April 6 with a performance in his hometown, Delhi, and had since captivated audiences in Mumbai, Pune, and Ahmedabad, blending original compositions with celebrated pieces like “Shiv Kailash” and “Tumhi Dekho Naa.”
Following his tribute performance in Jaipur, Rishab will continue the tour with upcoming shows in Chandigarh (May 2), Hyderabad (May 4), Indore (May 9), and Bengaluru (May 11), before concluding the journey in Kolkata on May 18.
