5-Day Traditional Kartaal Course in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Conducted at Anandmaya Retreat in Tapovan, Rishikesh, this program offers a calm, uplifting, and devotional space where students can fully immerse themselves in the art of kartaal. Each session includes hands-on practice with real bhajan thekas, group rhythm interaction, speed and stamina exercises, and guidance on how to support a singer or harmonium player during Kirtan. You will also learn important musical skills such as listening awareness, beat consistency, and how to transition smoothly between tempos skills that are essential for real satsang performance. Under the warm and insightful teaching of Dr. Rohit Chobe, a PhD scholar in Meditation and expert in mantra and sound practices, students experience not only musical growth but also a deeper spiritual connection. By the end of the 5 days, you will feel confident to play kartaal in gatherings, satsangs, yoga sessions, or personal devotional practice, carrying with you a rhythm that brings joy, presence, and inner harmony.
Each session is 1 hour, focused, practical, and easy to follow.
Day 1 – Basics & Hand Technique
- Introduction to kartaal and its spiritual significance
- Correct grip & holding method
- Producing open–close sound
- Basic 1-beat and 2-beat practice
- Simple coordination exercises to build control
On the first day, you learn the foundation hand position, tone quality, and how to create clean rhythmic patterns.
Day 2 – Fundamental Rhythms
- 4-beat cycle (the most used pattern in bhajans)
- Basic Kirtan/Bhajan groove
- Tempo control & steady practice
- Right–left hand synchronisation
This session helps you build a stable sense of timing and clarity in your beats.
Day 3 – Bhajan Patterns
- Common bhajan thekas (rhythmic patterns)
- Clap + kartaal coordination
- Playing along with a basic harmonium track
- Simple variations for Kirtan
This is where you start applying your skills to real devotional music.
Day 4 – Fills & Speed Building
- Open–close patterns
- Short fills & rhythmic decorations
- Speed-building drills
- Wrist flexibility & stamina exercises
You’ll learn how to add beauty, creativity, and flow to your playing.
Day 5 – Full Rhythm Flow + Performance
- Complete bhajan rhythm cycle
- Smooth tempo transitions
- Group rhythm practice
- Final demonstration
- Personal guidance for daily practice
By Day 5, you will be able to play a full bhajan rhythm with confidence.
This 5-day program gives you practical skills you can use immediately in satsang or personal practice:
- Clean tone & proper hand technique
- Core kartaal rhythms for bhajan and Kirtan
- Strong coordination and timing
- Rhythm variations & small fills
- Speed development & tempo control
- How to accompany harmonium/singer
- Confidence to play in Kirtan or gatherings
Every session helps you grow step-by-step, even if you have never touched an instrument before.
Dr. Rohit Chobe – PhD in Meditation | Sound & Mantra Teacher
Born in Haridwar, the sacred city along the Ganges, Dr. Rohit Chobe grew up surrounded by mantras, temples, and devotional music. His father introduced him to Sanskrit and sacred chants, which shaped his early connection with sound and meditation.
By the age of 12, he began practicing yoga and classical Indian singing. Over the years, he blended these traditions into a unique teaching style that connects breath, vibration, mantra, and consciousness.
His work combines:
- Traditional mantra chanting
- Classical raga-based vocal practices
- Healing sound techniques
- Rhythmic instruments like kartaal, manjira, and damroo
Dr. Rohit helps students discover inner balance and harmony through the power of voice, rhythm, and devotional music. His warm, simple, and grounded teaching style makes learning easy for beginners and deeply enriching for experienced practitioners.
Kartaal is not just a musical instrument, it is a powerful tool for devotion and inner connection.
- Strong foundation in rhythm & timing
- Ability to play confidently in real Kirtan settings
- Improved hand strength & endurance
- Greater musical sensitivity & listening skills
- More presence, focus, and meditative awareness
- Confidence to accompany bhajans independently
Many students say that learning kartaal deepens their spiritual practice and brings joy to their daily life.
This course is perfect for:
- Complete beginners
- Kirtan and bhajan lovers
- Yoga practitioners
- Temple musicians
- Bhajan singers
- Anyone wanting to learn traditional rhythm
- Children (above 10 years) and adults
- No musical background needed
If you love devotional music, this course will feel natural and enjoyable.
- Peaceful learning environment in Tapovan Rishikesh
- Small group sessions for personal attention
- Traditional teaching method with modern clarity
- Step-by-step structure suitable for all levels
- Supportive, spiritual, and inspiring atmosphere
Students often describe Anandmaya Retreat as one of the top spiritual learning centres in Rishikesh because of its authentic approach and calm environment.
This kartaal course felt authentic from the very first day. The teaching style was simple, clear, and deeply rooted in tradition. I appreciated how timing and coordination were built gradually without pressure. Playing along with bhajan tracks helped me understand how kartaal supports devotional singing. Dr. Rohit’s background in mantra and meditation added depth to every lesson. The small group setting allowed personal attention and guidance. I felt comfortable asking questions and practicing openly. Kartaal now feels like a natural extension of my spiritual practice. I highly recommend this course to beginners.
- Daniel Hofmann
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1 Person without Accommodation
$ 249 Total price
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Include Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
$ 449 Total price
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