“STSOR” (Sitar Techniques and the Sequence of Riyaz) is a premier online training program conducted by Sitar Sam (Samanwaya Sarkar). Designed for learners of every level, STSOR reveals the correct approach to sitar practice, offering structured guidance, clarity, and techniques that transform your riyaz. If you're serious about learning sitar the right way and accelerating your progress, STSOR is the program that shows you how.

Please visit the Events page for future session announcements, and do not hesitate to get in touch if you wish to participate.

Lamahatta is a serene mountain village nestled near Darjeeling, blessed with sweeping views of the majestic Kanchenjunga range. Known for its untouched natural beauty, crisp mountain air, and the gentle silence of the surrounding forests, Lamahatta has become a cherished destination for seekers of peace and depth. The landscape is dotted with pine forests, terraced fields, and winding mountain paths, creating an environment that naturally draws the mind inward. The village is named after the Lepcha word meaning “monk’s hermitage”, and it truly lives up to that spirit — a place where nature itself encourages reflection, discipline, and artistic growth.

In this tranquil setting, Sitar Sam’s annual retreat takes place. Every year, students gather here to immerse themselves in focused Riyaz, away from the distractions of daily life. With 8 hours of dedicated practice each day, participants experience a rare combination of discipline, inspiration, and inner clarity. The calm surroundings, combined with the guidance of an experienced guru, create the ideal atmosphere for deepening one’s connection to classical music and the Sitar.

Whether it’s the cool morning breeze, the distant call of mountain birds, or the golden light settling over the peaks at dusk, Lamahatta offers a space where one can reset, refocus, and rediscover the joy of pure musical practice.