Indian classical music is one of the oldest and richest musical traditions in the world. With its intricate ragas, soulful improvisation, and deep-rooted spirituality, it has captivated listeners for centuries. But what happens when this ancient art form meets modern genres like jazz, electronic, rock, and funk? You get Indian classical fusion—a dynamic genre that blends the elegance of classical with the edge of the contemporary. If you’re looking to explore this genre or expand your playlist, here are 7 Indian classical fusion artists you absolutely need to have on repeat.
7 Indian Classical Fusion Artists
1. Shankar Mahadevan (Shakti, Remember Shakti)
A name synonymous with versatility, Shankar Mahadevan is not only a celebrated Bollywood playback singer but also one of the key members of the legendary fusion band Shakti and later Remember Shakti. With a solid foundation in Carnatic and Hindustani classical music, Mahadevan’s vocals are both powerful and intricate. His collaborations with guitar virtuoso John McLaughlin and tabla maestro Zakir Hussain have produced timeless fusion pieces that blend Indian ragas with jazz, Latin rhythms, and more.
Start With: Lotus Feet by Shakti
2. U. Srinivas
The late Uppalapu Srinivas was a mandolin prodigy who redefined what Indian classical instruments could do in a fusion setup. His performances often took Carnatic compositions and infused them with a jazz-like fluidity, creating music that was technically brilliant and emotionally stirring. Whether solo or as part of collaborations, Srinivas’ artistry continues to inspire fusion artists around the world.
Start With: Muthuswami Dikshitar Compositions (Mandolin versions)
3. Indian Ocean
Often hailed as pioneers of Indian rock fusion, Indian Ocean blends classical ragas, folk melodies, and socially conscious lyrics with rock and jazz elements. Their signature sound features tabla, ragas, bass-heavy grooves, and earthy vocals. The band’s music feels spiritual yet contemporary, making it a favorite for both purists and new-age listeners.
Start With: Bandeh and Kandisa
4. Karsh Kale
Karsh Kale is a global fusion artist known for seamlessly blending Indian classical music with electronica, ambient, and rock. As a tabla player, composer, and producer, he has created some of the most innovative sounds in the fusion space. His work appeals to fans of both traditional Indian music and modern experimental sounds.
Start With: Milan and Distance
5. Rakesh Chaurasia
A disciple and nephew of the legendary Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia, Rakesh Chaurasia is one of the finest flautists in India today. What sets him apart is his openness to fusion. He has collaborated with international artists, brought the bansuri into EDM and world music spaces, and shown how Indian instruments can speak a universal language.
Start With: Breathing Under Water (with Anoushka Shankar)
6. Anoushka Shankar
Carrying forward the legacy of her father, sitar maestro Ravi Shankar, Anoushka Shankar has carved a niche of her own in the global fusion scene. Her music is an elegant blend of Indian classical, flamenco, electronica, and Western classical. Not afraid to experiment, she’s worked with everyone from Norah Jones to Nitin Sawhney, creating deeply evocative and genre-defying tracks.
Start With: Land of Gold and Traces of You
7. Advaita
Delhi-based band Advaita is one of the most exciting names in contemporary Indian classical fusion. With a lineup that includes sarangi, tabla, guitars, and electronic elements, the band explores a wide range of textures. Their music often feels meditative yet modern, rooted in ragas but unafraid to venture into ambient and post-rock territories.
Start With: Mo Funk and Ghir Ghir
Conclusion: Tune into Timelessness
Indian classical fusion is not just a genre—it’s a journey. It takes the timeless beauty of ragas and rhythm and gives them new wings, allowing them to soar across genres, cultures, and generations. These seven artists prove that tradition and innovation can go hand-in-hand, creating music that’s both rooted and revolutionary.
So whether you’re looking to vibe to something soulful, meditate with melodies, or simply explore sounds that break the norm—let these artists guide your way. Plug in your headphones, hit play, and let the magic of Indian classical fusion transform your playlist.