Mumbai witnessed a rare and electrifying convergence of musical worlds on November 4, 2025, when sitar virtuoso Purbayan Chatterjee performed live with English progressive rock legend Steven Wilson. The collaboration, part of Wilson’s much-talked-about Overview Tour in India, created what many in the audience described as a “Prog Meets Raga” experience — a sonic journey that blended the intricacy of Indian classical tradition with the expansive energy of progressive rock.
A Meeting of Two Sonic Universes
Held in Mumbai, the concert became an instant milestone in India’s live music landscape. Purbayan Chatterjee — a President of India awardee and one of the most innovative voices in Hindustani classical music — joined Wilson and his band on stage
for an extraordinary rendition of Wilson’s iconic track “Voyage 34.”
The performance was nothing short of transcendent. As Wilson’s hypnotic soundscapes unfolded, Chatterjee’s sitar added layers of emotion and depth, weaving Raga-inspired phrasing into the sprawling textures of prog-rock. The result was a seamless dialogue between East and West, one that transcended genre and geography to celebrate pure musical expression.
“A Very Special Night”
Reflecting on the experience, Purbayan Chatterjee shared his excitement and awe, “Yesterday was a very special night. While I was familiar with Steven Wilson, seeing his show live — the visuals, the storytelling, the sheer power of the band — was a true eye-opener. I felt an instant affinity between his grooves and Indian Ragas, realizing I could contribute significantly. Playing on ‘Voyage 34’ was a deeply memorable experience, and Steven himself was absolutely wonderful. I already look forward to the next one.”
For fans in attendance, the chemistry between the two artists was undeniable. The collaboration revealed not just shared artistry, but shared philosophy — an openness to exploration and emotional honesty that defines both Wilson’s progressive rock and Chatterjee’s raga-based improvisations.
The Evolution of a Global Artist
While this Mumbai performance marks their most visible partnership to date, the connection between Purbayan Chatterjee and Steven Wilson had been quietly evolving. Wilson’s musical circles have long admired Chatterjee’s experimental sensibilities, and this live appearance serves as the perfect realization of that mutual respect.
For Chatterjee, who has previously collaborated with legends like Ustad Zakir Hussain and Herbie Hancock, the Mumbai performance reinforces his ongoing mission — to keep the dialogue between Indian classical music and the world alive, dynamic, and boundaryless.
As the final notes faded and applause filled the hall, it was clear that this wasn’t just another concert. It was a moment of cultural resonance — where Raga met Rock, and tradition found its echo in modern sound.
