About Pandit Batuk Nath Mishra
Tutelage
A distinguished virtuoso of the sitar, Pandit Batuk Nath Mishra represents the pinnacle of the storied musical heritage of Varanasi. His artistic journey began in early childhood, born into a lineage of formidable masters. He was first initiated into the intricacies of the sitar by his grandfather, the legendary "Thumri Samrat" Pandit Mahadev Prasad Mishra.
Panditji’s artistry is defined by his mastery of the Gayaki Ang—a sophisticated technique that translates the nuances of the human voice onto the strings of the sitar. This specialized training was imparted to him by his father, Pandit Amarnath Mishra, and his uncle, Pandit Pashupatinath Mishra, the duo celebrated throughout India as the illustrious "Mishra Bandhu."
A decorated performer, Pandit Mishra’s career is marked by early brilliance and sustained excellence. After securing first prize at the Sangeet Natak Academy in 1981, he was later conferred the prestigious title of "Sur Mani" following his acclaimed performance at the Kal Ke Kalakar festival in 1988. This accolade served as a prelude to his debut at the historic Haridas Sangeet Sammelan.
On the national stage, Pandit Mishra is a veteran of All India Radio, where he holds the distinguished "A-Grade" classification and has frequently been featured in the National Program of Music. As a global cultural ambassador for the Government of India and the ICCR, his music has resonated in the great concert halls of the world—from the "Labati Concert" in Geneva to high-profile tours across Taiwan, Mauritius, and South Africa. Whether performing at the serene Ganga Mahotsav or on international stages, Pandit Batuk Nath Mishra continues to evoke the spiritual and technical depth of the Benaras tradition, bridging the ancient and the contemporary through his strings.
​
In a career spanning over 50 years, Pandiji has had the privelage of accompanying some of the most renowned and beloved Hindustani Music maestros of India, accompanying on Tanpura with Pandit Ravi Shanker Ji and Pandit Bhimsen Joshi Ji to accompanying on Sitar with vocalists like Kaushiki Chakraborty.
What We Offer
Our Classes
The Living Traditions of the Benaras Gharana
At the Varanasi Music Academy, we provide more than just technical instruction; we offer a rare immersion into the soul of the Benaras Gharana. Under the direct tutelage of Pandit Batuk Nath Mishra, students are invited to explore the profound interplay between the human voice and the strings of the sitar.
I. Sitar: The Mastery of 'Gayaki Ang'
Our sitar curriculum is centered on the illustrious Gayaki Ang—the "vocal style" of instrumental performance. We teach our students to transcend the mechanical limitations of the instrument, guiding them to produce the fluid meends (glissandos) and subtle murkis (short trills) that characterize the human voice. This training is rooted in the lineage of the "Mishra Bandhu," ensuring that every stroke of the mizrab resonates with the authenticity of a centuries-old tradition.
II. Vocal: The Purab Ang Semi-Classical Repertoire
Varanasi is the heartbeat of India's semi-classical music. We offer specialized training in the evocative genres that define the Benares landscape. Our vocal program focuses on:
-
Thumri & Dadra: Mastering the Bol-Banav style, where the emotional weight of the lyrics is explored through melodic improvisation.
-
Seasonal Forms (Kajri, Hori, Chaiti): We preserve the vanishing art of seasonal singing—from the rain-soaked melodies of the Kajri to the vibrant, rhythmic celebrations of Hori and the poignant, classical depth of the Chaiti.
-
Voice Culture: Scientific and traditional methods to develop a voice capable of the intricate ornamentations required for the Benares style.
III. The Guru-Shishya Experience
True to the ancient Gurukul system, our training is deeply personal. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced seeker, you will receive one-on-one mentorship designed to cultivate not just technical proficiency, but a spiritual connection to the Raga. We bridge the gap between historical legacy and modern accessibility, offering both in-person sessions in the heart of Varanasi and immersive online modules for a global audience.
Sitar
Melodic Lessons
Our sitar classes focus on technique, repertoire, and improvisation. Experience the joy of creating beautiful music with expert guidance.
Vocals
Expressive Singing
Join us for thumri lessons where emotion meets melody. Develop your vocal skills and learn the nuances of this heartfelt genre.
Online Classes
Flexible Learning
Classes are 1 hour long and are available for students in the United States, Europe, Israel and Australia.
In-person Immersives
Special Events
Panditji teaches in person in Varanasi between November - March, and Bhagsu, Himachal Pradesh between April - September each year.
Reviews
What Students Say
Our students’ feedback inspires us! Here are some of the experiences shared by our learners.
SJ Karol - USA
Since June 2024, I have had the privilege of studying the soulful and expressive Thumri style under Panditji’s guidance. Taking 3-4 lessons a week has allowed me to truly immerse myself in the traditional guru-shishya relationship, which is essential for grasping the subtle emotional inflections and melodic nuances that define the Benares tradition.
Panditji is a rare teacher: he is immensely patient, yet his standards are rigorous. His 1:1, real-time coaching has been the cornerstone of my progress, bridging the gap between technical ability and genuine artistry. His mastery of the Gayaki Ang brings the music to life in a way that is both deeply traditional and personally resonant.
For anyone in the United States seeking to learn authentic vocal music from a true master, Panditji offers a world-class education that brings the heart of Varanasi directly to your home.
Justin- Australia
I have improved so much in just a few lessons!
Aisha Weiss - Israel
The online format is very convenient while still feeling personal.