A Soul-Stirring Sitar Ode to Varanasi’s Sacred Flame..
In a moving tribute to India’s spiritual heartland, celebrated sitarist and composer Rishab Rikhiram Sharma has unveiled his latest instrumental piece, “The Burning Ghat”, a profound sonic offering that transcends music and enters the realm of meditation and memory. Now streaming across all major platforms, the release is accompanied by a visually arresting music video filmed at the sacred Manikarnika Ghat, one of the holiest cremation sites in Varanasi.
More than a composition, “The Burning Ghat” is a reflection on life, death, and rebirth — an intimate journey through fire, faith, and liberation. Blending ancient ragas with subtle modern textures, Rishab captures the spiritual intensity of Manikarnika, where the eternal flame is said to burn ceaselessly, guiding souls toward moksha.
“This isn’t just a piece of music,” Rishab shares. “It’s a prayer in sound. A reflection of the soul’s journey, a mirror of surrender, and a celebration of the sacred fire that never dies.”
Known for revitalizing Indian classical music with a contemporary edge, Rishab’s artistry has drawn global acclaim — from viral reimaginings of Game of Thrones to the introspective compositions of Chanakya and Tandavam. With The Burning Ghat, he delves deeper into the spiritual fabric of India, offering listeners a rare glimpse into the sacred through the lens of sound.
This release follows his impactful Sitar for Mental Health India Tour, where music became a vehicle for collective healing and emotional wellness. It’s a continuation of Rishab’s evolving vision: music that is timeless, therapeutic, and unafraid to engage with the profound.
Filmed against the hauntingly beautiful backdrop of Varanasi’s riverfront, the music video captures the solemn rituals, the flowing Ganges, and the transformative power of fire — all wrapped in Rishab’s meditative sitar strains. It’s a love letter to tradition, but written with the ink of innovation.
“The roots of Indian classical music run deep, but they don’t tether us,” Rishab adds. “They allow us to rise, to reimagine, and to reach hearts around the world.”
The Burning Ghat is not just a track — it’s a spiritual immersion. A bold step in Rishab Rikhiram Sharma’s journey as a torchbearer for India’s musical heritage, now echoing in a new era.
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