17/07/2026
The guest for *Alakh no Otalo* this edition is Renowned Tabla Maestro Pandit Hitendraji Dixit*
Born into a family of distinguished musicians, Pandit Hitendraji possesses an extraordinary natural talent for Indian Classical Music. His grandfather, *Late Pandit Dattatraya Dixit* was a celebrated vocalist of the Gwalior Gharana, known for Dhrupad, Dhamar, Tappa and Khayal, and served as the State Musician of the erstwhile Dhar State.
The tradition of Indian classical music begins in the home-gurukul. Hitendraji's musical education also began within his family. His initial training in music started under the guidance of his parents, the renowned vocalists *Late Pandit Sudhakarji Dixit and Smt. Rajeshwariji Dixit* His initial training in Tabla began under *Pandit Dinkarrao Majmudar* of the Punjab Gharana.
A significant milestone in his training came in 1994, when the world-renowned maestro of the Punjab Gharana, *Ustad Allarakha* accepted him as his *Gandabandh Shagird* (formally initiated disciple). Thereafter, he continued to refine his training under the guidance of *Pandit Yogeshji Samsi*
Through complete dedication, rigorous riyaaz (practice), and deep devotion, Pandit Hitendraji has attained remarkable mastery in Tabla. Besides presenting numerous solo performances, he has accompanied many eminent artists including Ustad Shahid Parvez, Pandit Budhaditya Mukherjee, Padma Bhushan Vidushi Girija Devi, Pandit Buddhadev Dasgupta, Ustad Ashish Khan, Ustad Nishat Khan, Pandit Nayan Ghosh, Pandit Ronu Majumdar, Pandit Rupak Kulkarni, and Pandit Rajan-Sajan Mishra.
Panditji has given many captivating performances in India and abroad. However, according to him, the silent appreciation and heartfelt response of a discerning listener is the greatest award.
He has performed at several prestigious music festivals including Tansen Samaroh, Amir Khan Samaroh, Indore Music Festival, Sangini Smriti Samaroh, Kumar Gandharva Samaroh, Maihar Sangeet Sammelan, Miraj Sangeet Sammelan, and many others.
He is also actively associated with *S**C MACAY*
He was among the participants in the historic *Taal Darbar* the world's largest Tabla ensemble, organised during the Guinness World Record event held in Gwalior in 2023.
Based on his suggestion, the Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh recognised *25 December as Tabla Day* in connection with the Guinness World Record initiative.
He performed in the presence of the *Prime Minister at Hyderabad House* during the Republic Day celebrations in 2020.
He also performed in the Parliament of Laos in 2019, at the SAARC Speakers' Conference in 2017, at Rashtrapati Bhavan in 2004, in Kenya in 2001, and at several other important events.
Pandit Hitendraji is a Grade-A Tabla artist recognised by *Prasar Bharati*(All India Radio and Doordarshan).
Pandit Hitendraji will share his musical life journey with us.
Alakh no Otalo 7.5
Date: Saturday, 25 July 2026
Venue: Sahaj Swapnasrushti, Kachla Faliya, Dhadhela, Limkheda, Dahod, Gujarat
Time: 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Alakh no Otalo belongs to the "Alakh"; therefore, it is not bound by any restrictions, divisions or beliefs. It is a humble effort where the "Ghardivdas" place their living library before society and narrate the story of their inner life journey on this Otalo. This is not an ordinary story; it is the story of a person's own life, which they will share with complete openness.
Alakh no Otalo 7.05
*Note* This programme is by invitation only. If someone wishes to participate, they may contact us and attend after receiving an invitation.