Sunanda Sharma — The Melody of Banaras and the Spirit of the Hills

Sunanda Sharma’s music beautifully embodies a unique blend of the spiritual essence of Banaras and the refreshing vibrancy of the Himachal hills. Rooted deeply in the Banaras Gharana tradition, she channels the legacy of the legendary Padma Vibhushan Dr. (Vidushi) Girija Devi, a revered icon of Indian classical music. 

Born in Dah near Pathankot in Himachal Pradesh, Sunanda was nurtured in a musical environment from a young age. Trained initially by her father, Pandit Sudarshan Sharma, she excelled academically, earning a Gold Medal for her Master’s degree in Indian Classical Music from Panjab University. Her musical journey took a pivotal turn when Girija Devi recognized her talent and became her guru, guiding her for nine years in Banaras and Kolkata. 

Alongside, she received blessings and inspiration from maestros like Pandit Kishan Maharaj and Ustad Bismillah Khan, adding rich dimensions to her artistry. Sunanda’s mastery spans Khyal, Tappa, Thumri, Dadra, and Chaiti, complemented by her repertoire of Punjabi, Himachali folk, and devotional music. Her performances—both in India and internationally—reflect a rare combination of technical skill and emotional expression. She also serves as a visiting faculty member at SOAS University of London and the Royal Academy of Music, sharing her knowledge globally. 

Her work has earned widespread acclaim from prestigious institutions and media worldwide, with accolades highlighting her ethereal voice, technical prowess, and dedication to preserving and innovating within the Banaras Gharana tradition. 

Through her organization, Living Music Society for Arts, Sunanda fosters creative musical collaborations, further enriching India’s cultural tapestry. As her guru Girija Devi said, Sunanda’s extraordinary control over her t87aans and her heartfelt renditions ensure that the legacy of Banaras classical music shines brightly through her voice—a true torchbearer of tradition and innovation.