Tabla Exponent A tabla virtuoso from Delhi Gharana, Yuva Ratna Deepak Mehta (born May 28, 1982) did not grow up in a family of musicians.
Initially self-trained, he was spotted by his class teacher at the age of six. At that time, he began playing his first percussion instrument, the bongo, followed by congas Since then, he played in All India Radio, Doordarshan and accompanied with the music groups of Bhappi Lahari, Narinder Chanchal, Prem Bhatia & Party and many more. He started earning fame and got coverage in print and electronic media. His story was covered and telecast at that time by the famous TV serial ?Surabhi? in 1994.
Deepak Mehta finally shifted to the more demanding discipline of Hindustani Classical music, choosing to learn tabla on the landmark advice of sarod legend Ustad Amjad Ali Khan.
Deepak became the disciple of world renowned gurus, the late Ustad Chhamma Khan of Delhi Gharana, followed by his son Padamshree, and the late Ustad Shafaat Ahmed Khan. With such training, Mehta became a powerhouse performer of tabla. His electrifying performances captivate audiences, whether in the United State of America, other countries or motherland India.
It was no surprise that, at the age of 14, thanks to his sheer virtuosity and timeless supply of rhythmic melody and creativity on tabla, he was awarded the highest prize meant for teenagers, the National ?Bal Shree? Award 1996, presented by the President of India, the late Dr. Shank Dayal Sharma.
After the award, Deepak was featured or interviewed by numerous Indian media outlets, including Star Plus, Zee-News, Jain-TV,U-TV,E-TV, Total-TV, DD1,DD-Metro, Siti Cable, AIR, as well as several newspapers & magazines. The recording of his autobiography at this young age by Sweta Production is itself witnesses and proof of recognition of his art and talent.
Deepak Mehta has performed extensively in the USA, Canada, South Africa, Russia and Kirghistan and has been honored with many coveted awards, samaans and appreciations.
Author: Angel Romero
Angel Romero y Ruiz has dedicated his life to musical exploration. His efforts included the creation of two online portals, worldmusiccentral.org and musicasdelmundo.com. In addition, Angel is the co-founder of the Transglobal World Music Chart, a panel of world music DJs and writers that celebrates global sounds. Furthermore, he delved into the record business, producing world music studio albums and compilations. His works have appeared on Alula Records, Ellipsis Arts, Indígena Records and Music of the World.
