TRI-DHAARA: Legacy of Gharanas - Exploring Three Streams of Khyal

Samarth Nagarkar is an acclaimed Hindustani classical vocalist whose artistry brings together the depth of tradition with a deeply expressive and contemplative approach to raga music. Performing at prominent festivals and venues around the world, he is recognized for his rich musical interpretations and his ability to connect with audiences across cultures.

Equally accomplished as a soloist and collaborator, Samarth performs traditional Khyal music with The Samarth Nagarkar Khyal Ensemble, while exploring musical exchanges with jazz, Iraqi maqam, Western classical music, and other improvisational traditions. His work includes several solo and collaborative recordings, as well as his widely praised book, Raga Sangeet.

A disciple of distinguished masters Ulhas Kashalkar and Dinkar Kaikini, Samarth draws upon the Gwalior, Agra, and Jaipur gharanas. He is a former scholar of the prestigious ITC Sangeet Research Academy in Kolkata and a voting member of the Recording Academy (GRAMMY Awards). His contributions to the arts have earned him the Outstanding Achievement Award for Excellence in the Arts from NAKA.

As a founding member of Brooklyn Raga Massive and co-curator of its Colors of Raga concert series, Samarth has played an important role in bringing Indian classical music to new audiences. Through his initiative, Raga Sangeet Creative, he continues to expand opportunities for musical education, mentorship, and engagement, preserving the richness of the tradition while embracing new possibilities for its future.

Amod Dandawate is an accomplished tabla artist specializing in the Farrukhabad gharana. Introduced to tabla by his father, Dr. Vasantrao Dandawate, he furthered his training under renowned maestros, including Ustad Zakir Hussain and Pandit Samir Chatterjee. An experienced soloist and accompanist, Amod has performed alongside distinguished Indian classical musicians, bringing rhythmic depth and artistry to each performance.

Vivek Datar is a respected harmonium soloist and accompanist based in the San Francisco Bay Area. Trained under the late Pandit Vinayakrao Kale of the Gwalior gharana, he has accompanied celebrated Hindustani classical artists, including Veena Sahasrabuddhe, Ashwini Bhide-Deshpande, and Lakshmi Shankar. In addition to his performances, Vivek is dedicated to teaching and preserving the rich traditions of Indian classical music.