Jyoti Thakar (b. 1956) is a sixth-generation sitar player based in Pune, India, hailing from the Ashtewale family of Ujjain. Her gurus include his father, Vasudevrao Ashtewaale, and Drs. K.G. and N.G. Gadgil. Jyoti also learned from Pt. Dinkar Kaikini, Pt. Ram Narayan, and Pt. Suresh Talwalkar. Jyoti displays a deep understanding of traditional raga in her performances. Jyoti shares her musical knowledge with upcoming musicians, including students from America and Europe.
Arvind Paranjape, born in 1957 into a family of artists, Shri Arvind Paranjape was introduced to music by his parents and his uncle, the vocalist Pandit Kamlakar Joshi. He received further training from distinguished teachers, including Pandit G. L. Samant, Pandit Ramdas Palsule, and the Talyogi, Pandit Suresh Talwalkar. Shri Arvind is an experienced accompanist for vocalists, instrumentalists, and kathak dancers. Shri Arvind presents a program titled “Tab bhi Bola;” which showcases the aesthetics of Tabla and captivates audiences of all ages.
Jyoti and Arvind have performed in India and abroad. They have toured all the major cities of Australia (five times from 2013 to 2024), Europe (France and Germany in 2023), the UK (2016-2019), and the USA (2024).