At the Darbar Festival 2023, tabla virtuoso Ojas Adhiya and harmonium maestro Chinmay Kolhatkar delivered an insightful lecture-demonstration on the art of accompanying ghazals with the tabla. Their presentation delved into the nuanced techniques and rhythmic patterns essential for enhancing the emotive depth of ghazal performances.

Ojas Adhiya is renowned for his extraordinary technical proficiency and deep understanding of rhythm. His versatility spans various genres, including classical, semi-classical, and light music, making him a sought-after accompanist in the Indian music scene. His ability to adapt the tabla's intricate rhythms to complement the lyrical beauty of ghazals has garnered him acclaim among connoisseurs and casual listeners alike.

Chinmay Kolhatkar, an accomplished harmonium player, received his initial music training from Rajprasad Dharmadhikari in Kolhapur. He has since established himself as a prominent accompanist, collaborating with numerous esteemed vocalists and instrumentalists. His sensitive and melodic harmonium accompaniment provides a harmonious backdrop that enhances the expressive quality of ghazals.

Together, Adhiya and Kolhatkar emphasised the importance of subtlety, timing, and emotional expression, featuring classics like Chupke Chupke Raat Din by Ghulam Ali and Gulon Mein Rang Bhare by Mehdi Hassan.