Araj: Youthful Energy Breathing New Life Into Hindustani Classical Music

For generations, Hindustani classical music was a world largely appreciated by serious listeners who were willing to immerse themselves in its intricate grammar, slow development and deeply meditative aesthetics. Although timeless in its appeal, the art form often seemed distant to younger audiences who were unfamiliar with its nuances. In recent years, however, a wave of young artists has begun bridging this gap by presenting classical music in ways that feel relatable, vibrant and emotionally accessible. Among the most striking examples of this shift is Araj, a collective of five Mumbai based musicians who are offering a fresh interpretation of the classical tradition.

Araj was conceived by tabla prodigy Ishaan Ghosh, currently twenty three, who envisioned a sound rooted in the foundations of Hindustani music yet open to innovation. The ensemble includes vocalist Pratik Singh, sarangi artist Vanraj Shastri, flautist S Akash and sitarist Mehtab Ali Niyazi. All five musicians are rigorously trained in their respective disciplines and have spent years honing their craft. Together, they bring a distinct musical personality to the stage, allowing each performance to feel dynamic and contemporary while still honouring the classical lineage.

The name Araj translates to prayer, a sentiment that reflects their deep reverence for the traditions they represent. Ishaan, who is the son and disciple of tabla and sitar maestro Pandit Nayan Ghosh, formed the group with three of his fellow disciples: Vanraj, Pratik and Akash. Their bond, both as students of the same guru and as collaborators who genuinely enjoy making music together, became the foundation of the ensemble. Their first informal jam session a few years ago revealed a natural musical chemistry, inspiring them to shape their spontaneous experiments into a defined concept.

Rather than reinventing classical music from the ground up, Araj builds upon its existing framework. Ishaan’s precise rhythmic command anchors every piece, while Pratik’s expressive voice adds depth and emotional clarity. Vanraj’s sarangi offers sensitive melodic interplay, weaving effortlessly around the flute and sitar lines. Although their music is primarily rooted in Hindustani classical principles, their performances seamlessly integrate elements from diverse traditions. Listeners may notice subtle shades of jazz, Carnatic phrasing, Middle Eastern influences and even light classical textures. Much of their repertoire includes on the spot improvisation, which brings an element of unpredictability and excitement to each performance.

Ishaan describes their style as neo classical, a format where traditional raga based music is presented through a contemporary lens without diluting its essence. The group does not consider itself a fusion band. Instead, they view their work as a modern approach to classical soundscapes, where the purity of the raga is preserved but interpreted with youthful imagination. Their intention is not to chase trends but to create an experience that appeals to seasoned listeners, young audiences and curious newcomers alike.

Last month, Araj released their debut album titled Chakra, now available on major streaming platforms. Recorded entirely live, the album showcases the collective’s artistic range and the strong musical rapport shared by its members. Chakra features four tracks that highlight different moods, rhythmic structures and melodic expressions. The opening piece, Sargam Crossing, blends two ragas, Vachaspati from the Carnatic tradition and Patdeepki from the Hindustani repertoire, set against a lively four beat cycle. Peace at Eleven explores an eleven beat rhythm divided evenly into two halves, creating a meditative atmosphere that gradually unfolds.

Another piece, Summing Up, is based on Raga Basant Mukhari and includes the African Djembe performed by percussionist Shikhar Naad Qureshi, son of acclaimed musician Taufiq Qureshi. The album concludes with Thumri Lore, a soulful thumri rendition by Pratik Singh in Raga Maanjh Khamaj. He chose an old composition from the Jaipur Kuwar Shyaam gharana, performing it in the traditional thumri style to preserve its emotional integrity.

Araj has already gained significant recognition outside India. They have performed at renowned venues such as Bozar in Brussels, De Singel in Antwerp and Muziekgebouw in Amsterdam. Their appearances in India have been equally impactful. At a recent arts festival in Rishikesh, their fully acoustic classical performance drew nearly twenty five thousand listeners. Despite competing with high energy Bollywood and electronic music acts, Araj had the audience dancing to their rhythm, demonstrating the universal appeal of their musical vision.