Shikhar Naad Qureshi

Shikhar Naad Qureshi is an Indian percussionist and drummer known for his work on the djembe and contemporary percussion instruments. Coming from one of the most distinguished musical lineages in Indian rhythm, he represents a younger generation of artists exploring the intersection of traditional Indian rhythmic systems and modern percussion practices.

He is the son and disciple of noted percussionist Taufiq Qureshi, the grandson of legendary tabla maestro Ustad Allarakha, and the nephew of internationally acclaimed tabla virtuoso Ustad Zakir Hussain. Growing up within this musical environment, Shikhar Naad Qureshi developed an early exposure to the rhythmic vocabulary of the Punjab Gharana and the broader tradition of Indian percussion.

While rooted in the classical rhythmic traditions associated with his lineage, Shikhar has also developed an approach that adapts Indian compositions and rhythmic structures to instruments such as the drum kit and djembe. This cross-instrumental perspective allows him to engage with both traditional and contemporary musical contexts.

He performs regularly with his ensemble Rang Gandhar and is also known for percussion duet presentations with his father, Taufiq Qureshi. These collaborations often explore rhythmic dialogue between different percussion traditions while maintaining a strong grounding in Indian tala systems.

Among his notable career recognitions, Shikhar Naad Qureshi and flautist Hrishikesh Majumdar received the Best Traditional–Modern Fusion Artist award at the Clef Music Awards in September 2025 for their album Beats and Winds.

Over the years, he has appeared at several prominent venues and festivals, including performances at the NCPA Mumbai, the Royal Opera House Mumbai, and the Samraga Music Festival, contributing to a growing presence in both classical and contemporary music circuits.