Posted on 22 September 2025:
The Artistic Journey of Renowned Subir Thakur: A Maestro of Kathak and Tabla
RENOWNED SUBIR THAKUR STANDS AS A SHINING EXAMPLE OF DEDICATION AND ARTISTRY IN THE WORLD OF INDIAN CLASSICAL MUSIC AND DANCE.
Blessed with the rare opportunity to perform alongside legends like Padma Vibhushan Pandit Birju Maharaj, his journey reflects both talent and tireless devotion. With mastery in both Kathak dance and Tabla playing, renowned Subir Thakur has carved a unique space for himself in the cultural landscape of India.
His musical path began with the Tabla, guided first by his elder brother Tapan Thakur. This early foundation blossomed under the mentorship of Guru Anand Bodas, a revered maestro of the Farukhabad Gharana. After Guru Bodas’s passing, Subir Thakur continued to refine his skills under the legendary Guru Pandit Shuvankar Banerjee, deepening his understanding and technique with every beat.
In the realm of Kathak, his journey started with the Lucknow Gharana under Guru Sri Santosh Kumar. His passion for dance led him to attend numerous workshops with the iconic Pandit Birju Maharaj and the graceful Vidushi Saswati Sen. These experiences enriched his style, blending tradition with personal expression.
Sri Subir Thakur’s life is a testament to the power of discipline, heritage, and the pursuit of excellence. His dual expertise in Kathak and Tabla not only honors the legacy of his gurus but also inspires future generations to embrace the beauty of classical Indian arts.
A Journey Shared with Legends
Sri Subir Thakur’s artistic path is adorned with rare and remarkable experiences. As a performer of both Kathak and Tabla, he has had the honor of accompanying some of the greatest names in Indian classical arts. From the graceful rhythms of Padmavibhushan Pandit Birju Maharaj to the soulful strings of Pandit Buddhadeb Dasgupta and Pandit V.G. Jog, Subir Thakur’s journey has been a living tribute to tradition and excellence.
His collaborations span across generations and styles—sharing the stage with Vidushi Saswati Sen, Dr. Malabika Mitra, Pandit Rajendra Gangani, Pandit Krishna Mohan Maharaj, Pandit Rammohan Maharaj, Vidushi Vaswati Mishra, and Vidushi Mamta Maharaj. Each performance has been a celebration of heritage, where his Tabla and Kathak seamlessly blend into the larger tapestry of Indian classical expression.
A regular face on Doordarshan Kendra and All India Radio, Sri Subir Thakur’s art has reached homes across India. His passion has taken him beyond borders, allowing him to share the beauty of Kathak and Tabla with audiences around the world. Through every beat and every graceful movement, he continues to honor the legacy of the legends he once stood beside.
A Stage Graced Across Continents
Sri Subir Thakur’s artistry has lit up some of the most prestigious stages in India and abroad.
From the spiritual aura of Khajuraho and Konark Festivals to the grandeur of Ananya in Delhi and Pallavautsava in Mysore, his performances have left lasting impressions. He has also enchanted audiences at Ujjayanta Utsav in Agartala, Chakradhar Samaroh in Raigarh, and the iconic Dover Lane Music Conference in Kolkata.
Beyond borders, his talent has represented India with pride—at the Republic Day celebration in Seychelles, Pandit Ramgopal Festival in London, Bengal Festival in Dhaka, and cultural tours across South America led by ICCR.
Each performance is a reflection of his devotion to classical art and his ability to connect hearts through rhythm and grace.
