Prof Basavi Mukerji in a concert in Kolhapur, western India. Not seen in the picture is the Tabla accompanist, who is to the right of Basavi and towards whom Basavi is looking at the completion of her improvised episode when she returns to the Mukhda or the beginning of the Bandish (the fixed composition that must synchronise with the appropriate place on the rhythm cycle). Indian art music concerts are marked by enormous melodic and rhythmic tension and Basavi weaves improvised patterns with flair and aplomb, making a very difficult process look deceptively simple. When the episode is over, the surprise return to the Mukhda reunites melody and rhythm, when soloist and percussionist often come together in satisfying musical agreement.

Basavi likes to play one Tanpura herself and have another one played by an accompanist. Also seen here is the Tanpura accompanist, who, like the audience, is enjoying the musical moment to the hilt.