Archive · 14 Sep 2025
Urban Homes Reviving Indian Classical Music Through 'Baithaks'
Imagine enjoying beautiful Indian classical music in someone's living room!
That's a 'baithak'.
These are like cozy, informal concerts happening in homes.
Musicians perform close to the audience, answering questions, and even sharing a meal.
They're becoming popular again, with some events charging for tickets.
It's a way for more people, especially young people, to experience the music up close and feel like they're part of something special, not just another face in the crowd.
This intimate setting also helps support the musicians and their art.
Baithaks, intimate concerts, are experiencing a revival in urban settings.
These events feature Indian classical music in informal home settings.
Many baithaks are ticketed, supporting musicians and offering accessible entry to classical music.
The intimate setting allows for close interaction between artists and audiences.
Baithaks have historical roots but are now being adapted for a new generation.
- Who
- Musicians and audiences, including newcomers, gather for these events.
- What
- Intimate, ticketed concerts called 'baithaks' are revitalizing Indian classical music.
- When
- Baithaks have historical roots, with a resurgence in modern times.
- Where
- Held in homes, apartments, and various venues across India, including Delhi, Gurugram, and Hyderabad.
- Why
- To promote classical music, provide a more intimate experience, and support musicians.
- Definition
- Intimate gatherings and performances of Indian classical music in homes.
- Modern Baithak Venues
- Homes, apartments, farmhouses, gardens, and sari shops
- Ticket Prices
- ₹1,299 - ₹15,000 (depending on the event).
- Notable Performers
- Venkateshwaran Kuppuswamy, Shivani Haldipur Kallianpur, Soumitra Thakur, and others.
- Historical Roots
- Emerged in the 19th century, moving from royal courts to private homes.
- Key Organizers
- Soumya Rao and Varun K, Sangeeta Chopra, Sukanya Banerjee, and Tejas Jaishankar
