Strings of Innovation: Vishwa Mohan Bhatt Reflects on the Mohan Veena, Grammy Glory

Two legendary Hindustani classical instrumentalists took Hyderabadi audience in the palm of their hands with their virtuoso renditions. Exclusive interactions with them provided insights on the connection between life and music.Grammy-nominated flautist Ronu Majumdar and Grammy-winning slide guitarist Vishwa Mohan Bhatt are highly acclaimed musicians, who are widely recognised for carrying forward the legacy of their revered guru, Pandit Ravi Shankar.The two captivated the city audience with their stunning performances during the Bade Ghulam Ali Khan music festival, under the auspices of Sangitanjaly Foundation, at Ravindra Bharati here on Sunday. The organisation felicitated him with a Lifetime Achievement award.In an interview with Deccan Chronicle Viswa Mohan Bhatt spoke about the invention of the famed Mohan Veena.Could you share the journey behind the invention of the Mohan Veena?VMB: The idea for the Mohan Veena started in 1966 or 1967, when I had a simple thought: to create an instrument that could combine the sound and technique of several traditional Indian instruments — veena, sitar, sarod, santur, and sarangi — all in one. From there, my journey continued, performing at major Indian classical music conferences, receiving awards, and gaining recognition.That’s more than 50 years in your musical journey. Later, receiving prestigious awards like the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, the Tansen Award, and the Grammy was validating, but for me, the true reward is the respect from my peers and the satisfaction of knowing I’ve contributed to Indian classical music.