Acclaimed sitar virtuoso Purbayan Chatterjee has never shied away from difficult conversations. In a recent interview with The Hindu, the internationally renowned musician spoke candidly about the “nepotism debate,” arguing that success should emerge from meritocracy, not hereditary proximity or favouritism .
For someone who grew up in a strict, traditional environment as an exponent of the Senia Maihar gharana, Chatterjee brings a nuanced perspective. His father, Pandit Parthapratim Chatterjee, was his first guru—yet the musician has become one of the most vocal critics of artistic privilege in the country.
‘Inheritance is what you make of it’
Chatterjee draws a sharp analogy between artistic inheritance and wealth. “Inheritance of art is very similar to inheritance of wealth,” he explains. The value of what you inherit diminishes if you cannot make it grow. “Your musical vision is your own—nobody else can give you that. It’s what you do with the inheritance, what you leave behind, that matters” .
He points to stories of legendary musicians like Pt. Nikhil Banerjee, who carved out their own paths entirely on merit, as his inspiration .
The reality of Mumbai’s music scene
Having moved from Kolkata to Mumbai 14 years ago, Chatterjee observed firsthand how traditional structures within the industry revolve around “access, familiarity and inherited privilege.” In this country, he notes, the first question is often: “Whose kid are you? Who is your father?” .
This realisation became the driving force behind the Purbayan Arts and Artists Music Foundation (PAAMF), which creates platforms for young musicians from all backgrounds who simply need belief, mentorship and visibility .
Challenging predatory power dynamics
Chatterjee also warns against unhealthy power dynamics within the guru-shishya parampara. While humility and respect remain central values, he believes personal dignity must never be compromised. “Sometimes it takes courage to stand your ground, and although that may create temporary obstacles, in the long run, integrity always pays off” .
‘Feathered Creatures’: Breaking musical boundaries
His latest album ‘Feathered Creatures’, created with Grammy-winning guitarist Mark Lettieri of Snarky Puppy, reflects the same philosophy of breaking down walls. The project blends raga-based content with jazz funk, electronica and trance .
Chatterjee describes it as “youth-driven” and acknowledges that many were surprised by his direction. “I try to use those textures selectively, only when the music genuinely asks for them” .
He believes that tradition gives you the grammar, but your times give you the vocabulary. His responsibility now is to pass knowledge on to his students “in a way that allows them to interpret it according to the collective consciousness of their generation” .
The album is set for release in June 2026, followed by a North American tour in May 2027.
