Anirudh Shankar

Anirudh Shankar’s relationship with rhythm began in early childhood. Recognized for his natural sense of timing, he started formal tabla training at the age of four. His journey received early encouragement through blessings from Ustad Zakir Hussain, which strengthened his path in classical music. He trained at the Ustad Allah Rakha Institute of Music and studied under Shri Yatin Mokashi and Shri Nishikant Barodekar, developing a strong foundation rooted in the Punjab gharana tradition.

Alongside North Indian classical training, Anirudh broadened his rhythmic understanding by studying Carnatic rhythms under Smt. Sukanya Ramgopal. This cross-disciplinary learning shaped his approach to rhythm, allowing him to move between traditions with clarity and curiosity.

After completing his degree in architecture from CEPT University, Anirudh made a clear choice to follow music as a full-time pursuit. His work today moves between classical performance and contemporary experimentation. He has performed with artists such as Dilshad Khan on sarangi and Anupam Joshi on sarod, engaging in dialogues that connect melody and rhythm across forms.

Beyond performance, Anirudh is the founder and director of TimbreWorld Studio, where he experiments with sound design, electronic music, and new sonic environments. In 2025, he taught a module titled “Designing through Music” at Anant Summer School, bringing together his backgrounds in architecture and rhythm.