Classical notes, meaningful conversations: The baithak experience reimagined

Riddhi Atre (right, in blue) with performers during a baithak session

What if a classical concert felt less like a formal recital and more like a conversation? That is the idea behind Taal Tribe's baithaks, founded by Riddhi Atre, a Kathak practitioner who launched the initiative in May 2024 to create a platform for emerging classical artistes while making the art form more accessible to younger audiences. Since its inception, Taal Tribe has hosted six baithaks in Mumbai and two in Bengaluru.

Tanay Rege performs classical tabla. Pics courtesy/@thetaaltribe

"Upcoming artistes are not getting the kind of platform they deserve because they are not professionals yet. At the same time, my friends would say classical concerts are boring or difficult to understand. We wanted to create youth-friendly classical experiences," says Atre. The next baithak, on July 26 in Mumbai will feature Shantanu Gokhale (santoor) with Tanay Rege (tabla), alongside Nenad Joshi (harmonium). Rather than presenting uninterrupted performances, the artistes will interact with listeners, explain compositions and even incorporate games, making the experience less intimidating for first-time audiences.

Shantanu Gokhale with his santoor

This edition revolves around the theme, can listening change the way you feel? Guests will be encouraged to put away their phones and immerse themselves in two hours of music. "We want people to set aside their daily stress, be present in the moment and experience how listening to music allows them to relax," Atre says. The format seems to be striking the right chord. Nearly 80 per cent of the audience is below the age of 30, proving that an age-old baithak tradition can still resonate with a new generation.

ON July 26; 6 pm onwards
AT Unnamra Spaces, Vasant Vihar, Rungta Lane, Nepean Sea Road, Malabar Hill.
LOG ON TO @thetaaltribe
ENTRY Revealed upon registration