PANDIT SHARDA SAHAI
1935-2011
Pandit Sharda Sahai, one of India’s most renowned tabla maestros, is being mourned the world over after passing away on 20th November 2011, at the age of 76 surrounded by his family in Ealing Hospital, London. Panditji was renowned as one of the greatest exponents of the Benares Baj and pioneered its development worldwide, most notably in Canada, America and the UK. Panditji hailed from five generations of master musicians and whilst he was faithful to the tradition of his ancestors he also was very much a musician of his time.

He profoundly touched all those who came into contact with him with his great wisdom, knowledge and humour. He will be remembered for his spellbinding solo performances, East-West collaborations, and skill and generosity as a teacher. His legacy will live on through his disciples and students and in the Pandit Ram Sahai Sangeet Vidyalaya which he founded in Benares in 1965; so that those outside of the traditional musician families could have access to learn Music and the Performing Arts.
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Pandit Ram Sahai Foundation was set up in 2002 to meet the current needs for generating and understanding Indian music. It is a subsidiary trust of Pandit Ram Sahai Sangit Vidyalaya (India) which was founded in 1965 by Pandit Sharda Sahai and in 1987 by Dr Frances Shepherd and Pandit Sharda Sahai in the UK, with branches in Europe and North America. The aim of the trust is to serve, promote and encourage activities for the betterment of education and understanding of Indian classical music in the wider community.