When you picture a wedding, you might imagine elegant outfits, glowing décor, and the sound of love in the air. But in Bengaluru, there’s a musical twist redefining the celebration — walking violinists. Instead of being stationed with the band, these artists move gracefully among guests, serenading them up close.
This trend was pioneered by Aneesh Vidyashankar, who has been performing as a walking violinist since 2013. A seasoned musician with over 25 years of experience, Aneesh wanted to innovate beyond tradition. “Walking and playing isn’t just a gimmick — it demands precision,” he says. His performances are customized to suit the vibe of each event, ensuring the music always fits the moment. Inspired by his father, Vidya Shankar, Aneesh blended Indian classical music with movement, elevating the art form.
What began as an experiment has now become a full-blown trend. Mithun Eshwar, another leading name, shared, “Since January 2024, I’ve performed at over 105 weddings. People now want more than music — they want an experience.” His ensemble, featuring keys, flutes, guitars, and percussion, turns weddings into immersive shows.
Ram Charan, who began five years ago, now sees walking violinists at 70% of Bengaluru weddings. “It’s personal, engaging, and heartfelt,” he says, adding that the job demands serious dedication and hours of disciplined practice.
What once was rare is now the heart of celebration — making music walk with the bride and groom.
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