Arvind Kumar Azad

Pandit Arvind Kumar Azad belongs to the Benares gharana of tabla, a tradition associated with structured compositions and a strong rhythmic framework. His initial training began under his father, Shri Lal Baboo Prasad, followed by tutelage under Pt. Jagdish Shankar Mishra (Lallu Maharaj). He later entered the guru-shishya lineage of Pandit Kishan Maharaj, under whom he developed his mature performance style.

His playing emphasizes bayan control and detailed execution of traditional thekas and peshkar-based development, including fast-tempo treatments within Teentaal. Alongside solo work, he is active as an accompanist in vocal, instrumental, and dance performances.

He is a founding member of the Talayan Music Circle, established in 1995, and leads the Arvind Kumar Azad Academy in Pune, focused on classical music training. In recent years, his activity has included a tabla jugalbandi with Pt. Parimal Chakraborty in late 2025 and participation in a “Guftgoo” program on DD Urdu in early 2025.