Sitar Stories: Purbayan Chatterjee’s Ode to a Timeless Instrument

Mumbai, 23^rd September 2024: Immerse yourself in the captivating journey of Purbayan Chatterjee’s newest album, “Sitar Stories,” was launched yesterday. The album showcases the sitar, one of Indian music’s most iconic instruments. This album beautifully captures the sitar’s versatility and its harmonious fusion of diverse cultural and musical traditions. The launch took place at the very prestigious Ajivasan Hall in the presence of dignitaries like Pt Rakesh Chaurasia, Shankar Mahadevan, Sudesh Wadkar, Purbayan himself and many more.

Speaking about Sitar Stories Purbayan says, “For four years, I’ve envisioned an album where the sitar isn’t just an instrument but the protagonist. The sitar represents a harmonious collision between two religions, two musical cultures, and two cultural idioms. It’s a symbol of diversity and tradition, yet it evolves constantly, gracing classical concerts, movie scores, and even commercials. Through this album, I aim to showcase the sitar’s full spectrum, from the grand Surbahar to the futuristic electric sitar. I hope listeners will join me in celebrating this remarkable instrument.”

Stream the album here:

Album Tracks

Miyan Ki Todi Alap Jod (Release Date: 12 September 2024)

The Surbahar, the grand precursor to the sitar, takes the spotlight in this track. Recorded by Aditya Srinivasan with an eight-microphone setup, the track breathes life into Miyan Tansen’s composition, epitomising grandeur. Purbayan Chatterjee has masterfully worked on this Hindustani Classical raga with the expertise of Aditya Srinivasan on recording, mixing, and mastering.

Miyan ki Todi Dhamaar (Release Date: 18 September 2024)

Dhamaar, a 14-beat rhythmic cycle, showcases dynamic and percussive playing. Yogesh Samsi’s tabla perfectly complements Chatterjee’s sitar. This traditional raga instrumental piece was brought to life by Purbayan Chatterjee and Yogesh Samsi, with Aditya Srinivasan handling the recording, mixing, and mastering.

Lalit (Release Date: 18 September 2024)

An early morning raga capturing the dawn’s first rays, this track is characterised by its slow, methodical development in the 16-beat cycle teental. Purbayan Chatterjee’s sitar, accompanied by Yogesh Samsi’s tabla, has been beautifully captured by Aditya Srinivasan, who worked on recording, mixing, and mastering.

Bilaskhani Todi (Release Date: 18 September 2024)

This morning raga, composed by Miyan Tansen’s son Bilas Khan, features a unique 8.5-beat time signature, with Yogesh Samsi’s tabla enhancing the intricate rhythms. Purbayan Chatterjee’s sitar performance and Yogesh Samsi’s tabla artistry were expertly recorded, mixed, and mastered by Aditya Srinivasan.

Bilaskhani Todi Drut (Release Date: 18 September 2024)

A fast-paced rendition of Bilaskhani Todi, this track reaches a crescendo with rapid taans, showcasing Chatterjee’s virtuosic skill. This Hindustani Classical instrumental piece was brought to its peak by Purbayan Chatterjee on sitar and Yogesh Samsi on tabla, with Aditya Srinivasan overseeing recording, mixing, and mastering.

Satyagrah (Release Date: 14 August 2024)

A tribute to Mahatma Gandhi and his pursuit of truth, this track features a drum and bass framework with Raga JansamMohini. It highlights the interplay between acoustic and electric sitars. Purbayan Chatterjee, along with Yogesh Samsi on tabla, Shravan Samsi on drums, and Steve Kottoor on keyboard, created this piece, with Aditya Srinivasan working on recording, mixing, and mastering.

Bollywood Beauty (Release Date: 18 September 2024)

Inspired by a Bollywood tune from the legendary S.D. Burman, this track is a nostalgic tribute to Chatterjee’s childhood and the integral role of Bollywood music. Purbayan Chatterjee’s sitar, accompanied by Yogesh Samsi’s tabla, Shravan Samsi’s drums, and Steve Kottoor’s keyboard, was recorded, mixed, and mastered by Aditya Srinivasan.

About the Artist

Purbayan Chatterjee, a top sitar maestro from the Senia Maihar Gharana founded by Baba Allauddin Khan, has studied under illustrious gurus such as his father Pt. Parthapratim Chatterjee, Ustad Ali Akbar Khan, Pt. Ajay Chakraborty, and Pt. Anindo Chatterjee. He is inspired by the legendary Pt. Nikhil Banerjee and combines traditional richness with contemporary sensitivity.

Recipient of prestigious awards like the Indian President Awards and Aditya Vikram Birla Award, Chatterjee has also conceptualised the groundbreaking project Shastriya Syndicate, the first Indian Classical Band with a contemporary touch. He regularly collaborates with artists like Shankar Mahadevan, Ustad Zakir Hussain, and jazz legend Pat Metheny.