Ujith Udaya Kumar

The artist is an Indian classical tabla musician and National Award winner (Kala Utsav 2018 – Tabla), also honored with India’s Dhruv Tara Award 2019 by the Ministry of Education (MHRD). Currently pursuing higher education at the University of Delhi, the artist received early schooling from Vivekanand School, Anand Vihar, Delhi, and continues to balance academic study with rigorous musical training and performance.

Deeply rooted in the Banaras music tradition, the artist shows a strong inclination towards Purab Ang Gayaki, with a special focus on semi-classical forms such as Dadra and Thumri. The repertoire reflects the influence of the legendary Vidushi Girija Devi (Appaji), whose traditional Dadra compositions form an important part of the artist’s musical expression. The artist is presently undergoing advanced guidance under Vidushi Sunanda Sharma, learning the nuances of voice culture, stylistic discipline, and emotional depth essential to the Banaras aesthetic.

The artist has performed at several curated classical music concerts and festivals, collaborating with accomplished accompanists on tabla, harmonium, and tanpura. Actively engaged in the classical music community, the artist expresses a strong commitment to preserving heritage while continuing disciplined learning. Through performances, academic pursuits, and respectful adherence to the guru–shishya tradition, the artist continues to honor the legacy through music while steadily shaping a meaningful presence in the world of Indian classical music.