The sitar is perhaps the most recognized instrument of South Asian classical music, with its distinctive resonant timbre and sympathetic strings. From the Maihar gharana of Ravi Shankar to the Etawah gharana of Vilayat Khan, the sitar tradition is rich and diverse. Discover rare sitar recordings on Saarey Music.
Sub-Type2
Sitar
The Iconic Sound of South Asian Classical Music
41 renditions
Sitar Renditions
Frequently Asked Questions
The sitar is a plucked string instrument central to South Asian classical music, featuring a long neck, movable frets, and sympathetic strings that create its characteristic resonant sound. It is used for both solo recitals (where the sitarist explores raags) and in ensemble settings.
Legendary sitarists include Pandit Ravi Shankar, Ustad Vilayat Khan, Nikhil Banerjee, and Abdul Halim Jaffer Khan. Each developed a distinctive style (gayaki ang, tantrakari) that expanded the instrument's expressive range. Saarey Music features rare recordings from these and other masters.