Mindfulness and music came together in Hyderabad as Rishab Rikhiram Sharma led the audience through an evening designed to soothe and centre. The New York-based artiste brought his distinctive neo-classical sitar sound to a packed venue in the city. A calming guided breathing session opened the performance, setting the tone for a set rooted in healing and connection.

Rishab’s set included original compositions like Adi Shankara and Temple Fire — a tribute to the Manikarnika Ghat — alongside reimagined versions of Saare Jahan Se Accha, Kal Ho Naa Ho, and Zara Zara. The night culminated in a stirring rendition of the Shiv Tandav, drawing an enthusiastic response from the audience. I’ve always believed in the healing power of Indian classical music — the way ragas and dhuns are structured has a direct effect on the human brain. Rishab’s performance was proof of that. It wasn’t just music; it was medicine for the mind— Raghav Rao, classical music enthusiastI want to make more noise with my music for awareness, for healing. Mental health is as common as a cold, yet we still don’t talk about it enough. It’s time to change that— Rishab Rikhiram Sharma