Music is not only about performance—it's also about preservation. For those passionate about Indian classical music and the instruments that bring it to life, a rare opportunity awaits in West London this summer. On Sunday, June 15, The Bhavan, the UK’s leading institute for Indian arts and culture, will host a specialist sitar repair and maintenance workshop led by master artisans Shambhu and Punita Gupta. Held at 4A Castletown Road, London W14 9HE, this one-day workshop is designed to deepen your connection with the sitar through the lesser-known, yet essential, skill of instrument care.
The sitar, with its intricate design and complex construction, requires more than just skilled fingers to play—it demands precise maintenance to sustain its signature sound. Whether you're a student learning the basics, a seasoned musician, or a music teacher hoping to support your pupils, understanding how to repair and care for this revered instrument is invaluable.
Participants will receive detailed, practical instruction on sitar repair, covering common problems such as string issues, tuning peg malfunctions, sympathetic string adjustments, and resonance control. The workshop will also touch on how to assess wood damage, replace worn frets, and perform basic cosmetic restoration. Expert tutors Shambhu and Punita Gupta, who are not only skilled sitarists but also trained in the technical craftsmanship of Indian instruments, will guide attendees through each process with clarity and hands-on demonstrations.
This workshop stands out not only for its technical value but also for its cultural significance. The sitar is an emblem of Indian musical heritage, and learning how to maintain it is an act of respect toward that tradition. In an age where digital music dominates, the workshop at The Bhavan reinforces the importance of analogue craftsmanship and deepens participants’ appreciation for traditional Indian instruments.
Workshops like these are exceedingly rare in the UK. Most sitarists either ship their instruments abroad for repairs or rely on limited local knowledge. This session bridges that gap, empowering musicians with practical skills they can use for life. Moreover, it offers a chance to engage directly with expert artisans in a small, focused setting—something not easily found online or in general music education.
The Bhavan, as the home of Indian classical culture in the UK, continues to play a pivotal role in nurturing both the artistic and technical facets of Indian heritage. This workshop reflects its broader mission: not only to teach music, dance, and language but to ensure the survival of the knowledge systems that support them.
Spaces for the sitar repair workshop are expected to fill quickly due to limited capacity and high interest from the music community. Early booking is advised to avoid disappointment. For more details and registration, visit www.bhavan.net.
Whether you’re a musician, collector, or cultural enthusiast, this workshop offers a meaningful opportunity to engage with Indian classical music from a completely new angle. Come ready to learn, connect, and discover the artistry behind one of the most beautiful instruments in the world.
