Classical musician Mahesh Kale, who has won national awards, recently visited the city as part of an eight-city tour. CT had a conversation with him about promoting the genre globally, his collaborations, and more. The award-winning musician credits his family, especially his mother, for instilling in him a passion for Indian classical music. Despite pursuing a master's degree in the US, he realized that his true calling was music. In anticipation of his performance in Kolkata, CT spoke to Mahesh, a disciple of Pt Jitendra Abhisheki, about his collaborations with Zakir Hussain, Stanley Jordan, and others. He expressed his desire to give classical music an international platform. Mahesh mentioned that the compositions he creates are akin to self-portraits and he tailors his performances based on the local flavor of each city. He finds solace and fulfillment in classical music, which he sees as a calling that he cannot resist. Mahesh shared his commitment to Indian classical music and emphasized its significance beyond just entertainment. Rooted in tradition but open to experimentation, he is passionate about promoting classical music globally. Mahesh is working on launching a virtual music school to make Indian classical music more accessible worldwide.I have been involved in the music scene in the Bay Area for quite some time, but it was during the pandemic that I made the decision to take my music online. I believe that the joy of this genre cannot be confined to occasional concerts. For me, teaching music is about helping students tap into that joy on a consistent weekly basis.

Working with established artists like Zakir Hussain, George Brooks, and Stanley Jordan has been incredibly educational for me. Collaborating with these musical giants and observing how they react to musical stimuli has been a valuable learning experience. While concerts are special, it is during rehearsals that I have the opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations with them and gain a deeper understanding of their musical perspectives.

"The more you experience life and meet new people, the more you evolve as a person. I am inspired by travel and interactions, and this is reflected in the music I create."

"Performing in Kolkata for the first time holds a special significance for me, as it is a place with a rich musical heritage. I am confident that the audience there is well-informed, and performing for such a knowledgeable crowd adds an extra level of excitement to the experience."