top of page
"INDIAN SUPERSTARS"
- ZDF Television, GERMANY
THE MAHARAJ TRIO, a revered father and sons ensemble hailing from the cultural heartland of Varanasi, India. Renowned for their transcendent mastery of ancient Ragas, meticulously passed down through an illustrious lineage spanning 15 generations. Their music, distilled from sacred Vedic texts, serves as a profound testament to India's rich musical heritage. Each performance is a testament to their unparalleled virtuosity, weaving intricate improvisations that resonate with the deepest depths of human emotion. Their global footprint is as awe-inspiring as their artistry, gracing the stages of prestigious world music festivals across continents—from Europe to Asia, the Americas, and beyond. Recognized by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations, they stand as cultural ambassadors, magnificently showcasing the timeless splendor of India’s musical legacy to enraptured audiences worldwide.
Pandit Vikash Maharaj
Sarod Maestro / Composer / Music Director / Philanthropist / Producer
Pandit Vikash Maharaj is one of the 20th century’s foremost masters of the Sarod, leaving an indelible mark on the world stage of Indian classical music. Born into the esteemed lineage of the Banaras Gharana as the 14th generation of the Maharaj clan in the sacred city of Varanasi, India, his musical journey began under the tutelage of his father, the legendary Tabla Guru Bengal Tiger Pandit Nanhku Maharaj. Later, he refined his craft under the guidance of Guru Pandit Rajesh Chandra Moitra, a senior disciple of the illustrious Baba Allauddin Khan Saheb of the prestigious Maihar Senia Gharana.
Pandit Vikash Maharaj's exceptional talent and dedication have led him to grace prestigious platforms worldwide. He holds the distinction of being the first Indian Sarod player to perform at the Nobel Peace Center in Oslo, Norway, in 1989, a testament to his global resonance. Notable performances include his appearance at the International Leprosy Eradication Seminar in Munich, Germany, in 1982, where he received a special invitation from the 5th President of Germany, Mr. Karl Carstens. In 2008, he was honored with an invitation to the Parliament of New Zealand, further solidifying his international acclaim.
Throughout his illustrious career spanning 5 decades, Pandit Vikash Maharaj has mesmerized audiences with over 7000 concerts worldwide. His artistry has graced iconic venues such as the Cologne Cathedral, Berliner Philharmonie in Germany, the Vienna Philharmonie in Austria, WOMAD Taranaki New Zealand and the San Francisco Jazz Festival in the United States, among countless others. Renowned for his composition prowess, Pandit Vikash Maharaj's Raag Hinglaj, Raag Dhumavati, and the melody GANGA stand as timeless classics among his extensive repertoire.
Beyond his musical endeavors, Pandit Vikash Maharaj is a fervent advocate for cultural exchange and education. He has served as a visiting professor at esteemed institutions worldwide, including Berkeley Music College and San Diego City College in the United States, Bach Music Academy in Germany, and the University of Auckland in New Zealand, to name a few.
In 1995, the Bach Music Academy, Germany, bestowed upon him the title of "Professor" in recognition of his role in fostering cultural harmony between India and Germany. His contributions have been further acknowledged by the Government of Uttar Pradesh, India, which honored him with the prestigious
Yash Bharati award in 2014 for his exceptional contributions to Indian classical music.
Pandit Vikash Maharaj has been appointed as an honorary member of the Sant Kabir Academy Culture Department by the Governor of Uttar Pradesh. This prestigious appointment recognises his significant contributions to the cultural heritage of the region and his expertise and dedication to promoting and preserving Uttar Pradesh's rich cultural legacy.
Pandit Vikash Maharaj's impact extends beyond the concert hall. In 1986, he founded PANCHNAAD, a music ensemble aimed at promoting Indian classical music globally through diverse musical expressions. He is also a co-founder and music director of THE HOLIWATER PROJECT, an organization dedicated to conserving drinking water worldwide.
His artistic legacy continues to flourish, with over 150 recordings to his name, including collaborations with renowned international artists and ensembles. Whether performing for esteemed institutions or captivating audiences on television and radio broadcasts worldwide, Pandit Vikash Maharaj's dedication to his craft and passion for cultural exchange serve as a beacon of inspiration for generations to come.
Abhishek Maharaj
Sitar Player / Vocalist / Composer
Marching to the rhythm of his heritage, Abhishek Maharaj, scion of the illustrious Maharaj clan of Banaras Gharana, was born on March 30th, 1987, in Varanasi, India. He inherited a legacy steeped in musical excellence, tracing his lineage back 15 generations.
Guided by the masterful hand of his father, the legendary Sarod maestro Pandit Vikash Maharaj, Abhishek's journey into the realm of music began. Initiated as a vocalist under the tutelage of Guru Sri Jalpa Prasad Mishra, he later found his muse in the strings of the Sitar.
A virtuoso in both Khayal Gayaki and Drupad Ang styles, Abhishek's talent blossomed early, captivating audiences at the venerable Kumbh Mela in Allahabad at the age of 18. Recognizing his innate brilliance, his father intensified his training, sculpting him into a future Sitar Maestro.
Abhishek's musical oeuvre is characterized by a singular brilliance, an alchemy of tradition and innovation. His profound understanding of music transcends borders, drawing accolades from luminaries such as Bharat Ratna Ustad Bismillah Khan and Padma Vibhushan Pandit Kishan Maharaj.
From the hallowed halls of the WOMAD Festival to the pulsating energy of the San Francisco Jazz Festival, Abhishek's performances resonate with a soul-stirring depth. Decorated with six Gold Medals by the Ministry of Culture and Central Universities of India, his virtuosity knows no bounds.
Yet, beyond the realm of music, Abhishek's heart beats with a passion for social change. Standing shoulder to shoulder with his father, he has waged war against societal ills, championing causes like corruption, child labor, and human trafficking.
As the director of the Banaras Music Academy, Abhishek ensures that the rich tapestry of Indian classical music is accessible to all, regardless of caste or creed. His philanthropic endeavors extend to supporting education and music classes for marginalized communities, exemplifying his commitment to equality and social justice.
Abhishek Maharaj's symphony is not just a melody but a clarion call for change. Through his music and activism, he orchestrates a harmonious chorus of empowerment, leaving an indelible imprint on hearts and minds across the globe.
Prabhash Maharaj
Tabla Player / Composer / Producer
Prabhash Maharaj's life story unfolds as a captivating blend of musical legacy and social activism. Born into the esteemed musical lineage of Pandit Bade Ramdas Das ji in Varanasi, India, he embarked on his Tabla education under the tutelage of Banaras Gharana luminaries, including his grandfather, the Bengal Tiger title awardee Tabla Guru Pandit Nanhku Maharaj, as well as Padma Vibhushan Pandit Kishan Maharaj and his father, Sarod Maestro Pandit Vikash Maharaj.
At the tender age of 7, Prabhash mesmerized thousands with his debut Tabla solo during a Varanasi event rallying against social injustice and Dalit oppression in India, earning accolades from distinguished poet Sri Kaifi Azami.
Over three decades, Prabhash has graced the stage alongside legends like Bharat Ratna Pandit Ravi Shankar, Bharat Ratna Pandit Bismillah Khan, and Ustad Mumtaj Hussain, among others, at prestigious events such as Ganga Mahotsav, Taj Mahotsav, and San Francisco Jazz Festival.
Notably, he became the first Indian Tabla player to perform at the Parliament of New Zealand, commemorating Diwali alongside then-Prime Minister Mrs. Helen Clark. Beyond music, Prabhash has ardently championed causes, joining the Bachpan Bachao Andolan in 1990 to combat child labor, marching with environmentalist Sri Sundar Lal Bahuguna to protect the Ganges, and founding the international musician collective Holiwater in 1998 to advocate for global river conservation.
His famous rallying cry, "We can live without Petrol but can't survive without Water," resonates worldwide, amplifying his impact across social media platforms.
Prabhash Maharaj's dedication hasn't gone unnoticed, as evidenced by the numerous awards and honors he has received, including the Sant Keshavdas Ratna Samman from the Government of Bihar, the Dr. Radha Krishnan Award, and recognition as a Cultural Ambassador by the United Nations.
Moreover, Prabhash's commitment extends to academia, where he serves as a Visiting Professor at esteemed national and international universities, fostering appreciation for Indian culture and classical music.
With two master's degrees in Music and Sociology, adorned with six gold medals and various scholarships, Prabhash's global footprint spans performances and educational engagements across the United States, Europe, Asia, and beyond.
Awards and Honour-
For his distinguish contributions to society he has also received numerous awards like- Sant Keshavdas Ratna Samman-Government of Bihar, Parliamentary batch of Germany, Dr. Radha Krishnan Award, Avantika, New Delhi, Paharua Samman, Dr. S.S. Foundation, Uttar Pradesh, Tabla Maestro, United Nations Y.O., India Cultural Ambassador, P.V.C.H.R. India/Asia, Awantika Samman - New Delhi, N.C.Z.C.C. Allahabad, India, National Scholarship, Govt. of India, C.C.R.T. Department of Culture, Govt. of India, Tabla Shiromani, Gopio, Mauritius / India, Citi Karnika ZEE T.V. Network, India, Dharohar Samman, Rotary International.
Honorable Member: Ex. Cultural Forum of Bachpan Bachao Andolan, (B.B.A.) New Delhi. Artists Against Child Labor (AACL) International. Music Institute of Benares U.S.A./INDIA. Kashi Vishwanath Sangeet Samaroh Varanasi, Ex- Misereor Germany, Holiwater New Zealand, Xertifix Germany, Sahana Iliya Germany.
Radio & TV: B.B.C. London -U.K.,
Channel 4 -New Zealand. National Radio-New Zealand, K.B.C.S. New York-U.S.A.,
All India Radio Doordarshan, India
National Radio-Germany, Radio and Television Baden– Baden, Germany, SWR Germany, EPIC Channel India, ZTV India, ETV India, India TV, ZDF Germany as named few.
Prabhash Maharaj has been working as Visiting Professor in several most popular national and international Universities to create an understanding and honor for India and Indian Classical Music since 16 years till present. Few Universities names are as follows: Berkeley Music College (San Francisco) California State University Northridge-California, Santa Barbara University-California, Santa Barbara California, Loyola Marry Mount University (Los Angeles) California, San Diego City College (San Diego) California. Ochsenhausen State Music Academy, Ochsenhausen, University of Auckland, Auckland.
"Pandit Vikash Maharaj’s performance brought
New Zealand close to INDIA.”
- New Zealand Herald
bottom of page