Rishab Rikhiram Sharma, a renowned sitarist and music producer, is known for his mesmerizing performances that blend traditional Indian classical music with modern influences.

As the youngest disciple of the legendary Ravi Shankar, he has performed on prestigious global stages, including a historic solo at the White House during a Diwali celebration hosted by the Biden administration. However, beyond his musical brilliance, one unique aspect of his artistry has captured attention his ritual of applying mehndi (henna) before every concert.

For Rishab, this practice is not just about aesthetics; it carries deep cultural, spiritual, and even physical significance. Rooted in Indian tradition, mehndi is considered auspicious and a symbol of protection.

By applying it before his performances, Rishab connects with his heritage and invokes a sense of grounding before stepping onto the stage. The process itself becomes a meditative act, allowing him to center his mind and prepare spiritually for the immersive journey of his music.

Beyond its cultural and spiritual relevance, mehndi also has natural cooling properties, which help relax the nerves and muscles of the hands. This can be particularly beneficial for a sitar player, as it enhances flexibility and endurance during long, intricate performances.

While the beautiful henna patterns on his hands add to the visual charm of his presence, it is the deeper personal connection to the ritual that makes it an indispensable part of his musical journey. Through this practice, Rishab bridges tradition with artistic expression, creating performances that are as soulful as they are spellbinding.