Blending Tradition with Modernity #Music #PersonalBranding #RishabRikhiramSharma
Rishab Rikhiram Sharma, a torchbearer of Indian classical music, has not only made a name for himself but also elevated the sitar to new heights in the modern era. His career trajectory offers invaluable lessons in perseverance, adaptability, and personal branding. Through a perfect blend of tradition, innovation, and strategic effort, Rishab has created a unique identity in the music world.
Here’s how his journey can inspire your career path:
1. A Legacy of Excellence: Training with the Best
Rishab’s career is rooted in years of rigorous training under legendary Sitar Maestro Pt. Ravi Shankar, who took young Rishab on as his youngest and last disciple.
His deep understanding of the sitar and its nuances reflects the wisdom also passed down by his own father, master luthier, Sanjay Sharma (Rikhi Ram), who became his first Guru.
He pursued a dual degree in Music Production and Economics at City University New York, Queens College Campus.
Career Lesson: Mentorship matters. Learning from the best in your field not only elevates your skillset but also connects you to a legacy that adds credibility to your work. Seek guidance from those who inspire you and absorb their lessons to refine your craft.
2. Innovating Tradition: Customizing Instruments
Rishab’s father, who owns the renowned Rikhi Ram Musical Instrument Store, crafted customized sitars tailored to his son’s unique style. This not only enhanced Rishab’s performances but also brought global fame to the family brand.
Career Lesson: Innovation isn’t just about creating something new—it’s about improving what exists. Use your resources and connections to craft solutions that set you apart and elevate the ecosystem you’re part of.
3. Consistent Social Media Effort: Building a Digital Presence
Rishab’s success isn’t just limited to the stage; he’s made a concerted effort to connect with audiences online. His regular posts of performances, collaborations, and creative experiments have made him a consistent presence in the digital world.
Rishab goes live weekly on Instagram and Clubhouse, entertaining audiences with reels that often reach millions of views.
Career Lesson:In the age of social media, consistency is key. Whether it’s through showcasing your work or sharing behind-the-scenes insights, sustained effort helps you build a loyal audience and establish a recognizable brand.
4. Creativity is Your Currency: Leveraging Mehendi for Virality
In his most talked-about performances, Rishab adorned his hands with intricate mehendi designs—a nod to Indian traditions that also visually captivated social media audiences. This thoughtful detail sparked a viral moment, making a statement on gender-related stigma and leading to attention in younger generations.
Career Lesson:Think beyond the obvious. Find ways to make your work resonate with your audience in unexpected ways.
5. Dress the Part: Crafting a Visual Identity
Rishab’s attire blends classical Indian aesthetics with contemporary style, making his performances not just auditory but also a visual spectacle. His choice of wardrobe mirrors his fusion of traditional and modern music.
Rishab Sharma is the first Sitarist to be invited to perform solo at the White House by United States President Biden, First Lady Jill Biden, and VP Kamala Harris for the Diwali event hosted by the President.
Career Lesson:Your appearance is an extension of your brand. Invest in creating a consistent and memorable visual identity that aligns with your message and resonates with your audience.
6. Evolving with the Times: Making Music Current
Rishab reimagines sitar performances by fusing them with contemporary genres. This creative adaptation ensures his music stays relevant while attracting a diverse audience.
A master at blending modern music nuances with his classical foundation, Rishab has crafted a strong US network and garnered a substantial online following through platforms like YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and Clubhouse.
Career Lesson: Adapt your skills to fit current trends while staying true to your roots. This balance ensures longevity and helps you remain impactful in a changing world.
7. Spotlighting Causes: Aligning with Social Movements
By tying his music to social and cultural causes, Rishab brings attention to both his craft and the messages he supports. His performances often carry a deeper purpose, connecting with audiences on a meaningful level.
Rishab is also a vocal advocate for mental health awareness and has been open about his struggles with anxiety and depression.
In 2020 he founded ‘Sitar For Mental Health’, which aims to promote mental wellness through music therapy. Rishab offers costless music therapy to online audiences and collaborates with mental health experts to develop a comprehensive method for mental wellness.
Career Lesson:Your work can amplify causes that matter to you. Aligning your efforts with larger movements adds depth and purpose to your career, making it more impactful.
In Conclusion: A Symphony of Career Excellence
Rishab Rikhiram Sharma’s journey teaches us that a successful career isn’t just about talent—it’s about strategically blending hard work, innovation, and relevance.
Whether it’s through leveraging his heritage, innovating with customized instruments, or maintaining consistent visibility on social media, Rishab has carved out a path of excellence.
Takeaway for Parents and Professionals:
Parents: Support your child’s interests with resources, training, and exposure. A structured environment with mentorship can help transform passion into a sustainable career.
Professionals: Whether planning a career change or building your brand, ask yourself—how can I creatively adapt to stay relevant?
Like Rishab, you too can craft a career that resonates across generations and geographies, balancing the timeless with the timely.
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