Classical sitarist Rishab Rikhiram Sharma takes his Sitar For Mental Health tour to London and North America this fall. The show combines Indian classical music with breathwork, mindfulness, and mental well-being, with stops in Washington, D.C., Toronto, New York, Oakland and Los Angeles.
The composer sat down with Billboard India after his performance at London’s Royal Albert Hall to answer our On The Road questionnaire.
Where are you headed on this tour, and how many stops are there?
We’re one show in — London — and now we’re headed to D.C., Toronto, New York, San Francisco and L.A. We will also make a trip back to India on Oct. 3 to play at NMACC (Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre, Mumbai). That show actually sold out within 18 minutes, so super happy about that.
Then it’s back to D.C. from Mumbai.
Which stop are you most excited about?
I was really excited for London because it was a sold-out show too and, obviously, it was at the Royal Albert Hall. It’s one of the most prestigious venues any classical musician can play at. I’m really grateful that I got this opportunity to sell out the show and represent India and Indian music on such a global platform.
Now I’m super hyped for Carnegie Hall, because that’s another dream venue of mine.
What’s in your tour suitcase?
Suitcases, I have three (laughs). Lots of clothes, lots of outfits. Stage outfits, casual outfits. I’d say I have at least 20 looks ready.
In my other bag, there’s jewellery, equipment, in-ear monitors, show essentials, protein bars and two laptops. It has everything I need to make a show happen.
What’s it like travelling with a sitar, and how do you keep it safe?
My father, Sanjay Rikhiram Sharma, who made this wonderful instrument, also made a very sturdy box for me. It keeps my sitar safe and in tune all the time.
People often blame the airlines when their instruments break, but all you need is a good case and your instrument is safe. Get a nice case.
What’s your pre-show ritual?
Before the show, I just like to be with myself for a few minutes, meditating, thinking of God and finding peace.
Do you have a favourite spot to pause and relax before a show?
I don’t have a specific spot. I just like to be by myself — being idle, and focusing on my breathing.
Any mental health hacks for the road?
There are so many variables on the road, so many things that can go wrong, but also so many things that can work unexpectedly well. Over time, you just get used to the highs and lows. You have to remain calm and accept that this is happening to you, good or bad. It’s all part of the game. Just take it all in because it’s all part of the experience.
This is part of the rockstar lifestyle that you’ve chosen, so just bear with it.
What’s your on the road snack?
Makhana. I love makhana. All of my hospitality riders have different varieties of makhana: Peri-peri, classic salted, and cheese. I’m a makhana freak.
What’s something you always look for in a new city?
I’m from Delhi, so I just look for fresh air at this point (laughs). I love fresh air and clear skies. I love good weather where I can go out for a run.
Obviously, food spots. But I’m so desi at heart that anywhere I go, I’m like, “Where can we find good desi food?” I’m very Hindustani like that.
What’s your go-to coffee or beverage order on the road?
Iced Americano, all the way.
Night out in a new city or a quiet night in?
It depends on whether I have the energy to go out. I would love to browse the city and see what it has to offer at night.
What’s the first thing you do when you get to a new city?
I run to my hotel, get into bed and take a nap. I think that’s the best thing to do.
What’s one thing you always end up buying while travelling?
AirPods — the wired ones. I keep buying them because I think I’ve lost them. Some of them get so tangled that they’re beyond repair. So I just get new ones and then give them to someone who needs them.
Hotels or BnBs?
Hotels, 100%.
Flights or road trips?
Road trips, unless I’m flying private. Then flights.
Where are you most excited to perform?
New York. Coming back to New York is always special, and Carnegie Hall is sold out as well, so I’m really looking forward to that.
New York has been home for the past 11 years, so it’s fun. If I were to rank it, it’s Delhi, New York and then London.
What’s the most memorable thing someone has told you after a Sitar For Mental Health show?
I met a couple who did the audience exercise we have at our shows. They bonded and then came backstage and told me they were going to get married a year later. That was pretty sweet.
I thought to myself, wow, Sitar For Mental Health is also a matchmaking platform!
What’s one thing you’ve learned while touring?
I think one thing every artist learns is humility. Any artist who’s well-travelled and has seen the world will be humble. Whenever you go to a different country or a different culture, you have to go with an open mind and without any prejudice or assumptions. Similarly, when we go into concert halls, you can either treat it like your job or immerse yourself in different cultures. I feel like any great musician would take away humility from touring.
What do you miss about home when you’re on the road?
I just miss the food, honestly. And I miss my people — my family, my friends, my team. Obviously, the whole team doesn’t travel with me, and I really miss them when I’m away.
Who’s most likely to plan the day when you’re travelling with your team?
Usually my tour manager, who sends me a schedule. We have a custom app where we post schedules, so everything is dumped on there.
Three songs from your on the road playlist?
I’ve been listening to a lot of Michael Jackson lately, so “Billie Jean” would be number one.
I listen to a lot of Daniel Caesar, so I’d say “Blessed” by him. Aside from that, “Unhinged” by Masego. I think that’s popping up on my feed a lot.
