“We do not play with fingers, we play with our minds,” said Glenn Gould, one of the most-celebrated classical pianists of the 20th century. Though he referred to only pianists, the same applies to all great instrumentalists. They make magic with their instruments and have an uncanny ability to blend contemporary with traditional, which results in a beautiful mix of timeless music.

One such exceptional instrumentalist is Zakir Hussain. Hussain had prodigal abilities, as he started going on musical tours at the age of 12. Now, being the most famous tabla player in the country, he is considered as the “chief architect of the contemporary world music movement,” according to an article in iloveindia.com. In his mellifluous career, he has done many historical fusions and produced memorable albums. He is the youngest percussionist to ever be awarded the title of "Padma Shri" by the Indian government.

Decades before Hussain, there was a different legendary musician, born in a different place and playing a different instrument.. but he too, created the same kind of musical entrapment. “Ustad Bismillah Khan was undoubtedly a gem that India is proud of,” says an article about him in Culture India, as it goes onto list his various achievements and accolades. This maestro player of shehnai, had the rare honour of playing on the eve of India's independence in the year 1947.

India is filled with plethora of great instrumentalists like these two. To learn more and get inspired more, flip through this ClipBook.