Hindustani vocal and instrumental music
Kishan
Patel
Faculty of SIMA · Director of SIMA Harrisburg
Kishan Patel is a multidisciplinary Hindustani classical musician whose work reflects both depth of tradition and a spirit of exploration.
Under the guidance of his guru, Pandit Arijit Mahalanabis, Kishan primarily studies Khayal and Dhrupad, two of the most prominent genres of Hindustani classical music. His continuing study of Thumri and Tappa enriches his understanding of the broader vocal tradition.
Alongside his vocal practice, he plays esraj, surbahar, tabla, pakhawaj, and harmonium, bringing a distinctive texture and versatility to his musicianship.
As an educator with the Society for Indian Music and Arts, Kishan teaches vocal music, tabla, harmonium, esraj, and sitar, carrying the Hindustani tradition forward to a new generation of students. He has conducted workshops for SIMA, the Indian Classical Music Society of Vancouver, and Shree Academy of Arts.
Kishan has performed with SIMA, the Indian Classical Music Society of Vancouver, Kalakendra in Portland, Raag Rang in New Jersey, and Chhandayan in New York City. He has also received training and inspiration from Aditi Kaikini Upadhya, Dr. Nisha Joshi, Dr. Lewis Norfleet, Sachin Pimple, and Poovalur Srinivasan. These diverse influences continue to shape music that honors classical tradition while finding fresh and meaningful ways to connect with audiences today.
