Says Ramdas Palsule
“Madan Oak. IT professional to a matured Musician….
Madan Oak. From a school buddy to Pandit Madan Oak…..
Madan Oak. A passionate Santoor lover to a world renowned Santoor player..
I have witnessed Madan’s all these journeys as we know each other since childhood, being in the same school, from early 70s..
It’s really admirable as well as astonishing, , how one can do all this in a single life..
Madan has achieved praises from all over the world, not only from the audience, but also from great musicians. He has gained high respect for his musicianship. So high that legendary Tabla players are happy to share stage with him.
I wish him the best from bottom of my heart, and I am sure he will have brightest future and will conquer all the heights in the music field…..😊🙏 ”
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Says Satish Vyas
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I feel very proud to write about my gurubhai Dear Madan who is an extremely talented and accomplished Santoor Player. I have known Madan for more than 40 years and have been witness to his journey from a student of Santoor to Maestro of Santoor which he has achieved through sheer dedication, devotion, passion and relentless efforts. It is astonishing to observe that in spite of being a Professional IT person based in San Francisco Madan has perused music very seriously and has become a very successful Musician. Apart from performing Madan is also carrying the tradition of training young children in music through his institution Shatatantri LLC in San Francisco, California, USA. I wish him all the best in his future Musical endeavors.
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Says Shirish Kaulgud
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Madan… Boy, he is someone who lives music, of any kind and has influenced me immensely with his musicality.
Its 45 years since i met him first and a Marathi song he sang for us gave me a glimpse of his talent. That was the tip of the iceberg.
We connected again after one year and have been soulmates since then.
He developed fascination for Santoor very early. Back then, parents funded children’s education, not hobbies, so he crafted a Santoor by himself and took it straight to the ultimate Santoor destination – Pt.Shivkumar Sharma. Shivji was shocked to see his passion and took him under his wings after a while. I have seen his development from a Santoor student to a professional artiste closely. Listening to his late night riyaaz playing Kausi Kanada and Madhuvanti was making me a “rasik” too.
He believed that music has no boundaries so parallely Madan made us sway to Rafi saab’s “Pukaarta chala hoon main” with elan. He didnt hold himself back from singing some classic rocks of Beatles too.
Giving justice to musical legacy received from his dad, Madan developed incredible music sense and honed it over the years producing top quality music on his Santoor and regaling buddies with classic old hindi Rafi numbers.
I owe my little music sense to him because he held my hand during music between us. Obviously enough, his lines in my autograph book after college read “When we 2 were together, we were actually 3. Music was the third”.
My sincere wish for this amazing musical talent and a big hearted human being is that, he continues to make world around him a more happy place with his music.
Love you bro…. 
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Says Mukundraj Deo
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Madan Oak bhai is a brilliant and soulful Santoor player whose music speaks directly to the heart. His performances carry a rare depth and grace that reflect his years of dedication to Indian classical music.
Beyond his artistry, Madan bhai is someone I truly cherish working with. He brings warmth, humility, and a spirit of collaboration that makes every concert a fulfilling experience. It is always a sheer joy to perform with him.
Through Shatatantri Media LLC, Madan bhai has created a vibrant and close-knit community of Indian classical music lovers in the Bay Area. His work continues to open new doors for the art form, connecting artists and audiences across continents.
I’m very much looking forward to our upcoming concert at NMACC, and to many more performances together around the world.
Wishing Madan bhai continued success, joy, and new heights in every musical journey ahead.
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Says Ragini Shankar –
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A brilliant and accomplished musician, Madan Oak ji has performed around the world and has touched the hearts of audiences far and wide through his soulful and beautiful music. His dedication and passion towards the Santoor and Indian classical music is boundless and commendable. He is always open to new ideas and musical collaborations and goes out to his way to ensure excellence in any project he takes up!
A versatile person, a gifted artist, he is a very jovial and lively person, full of life and laughter who loves community and people.
Shatatantri Media LLC, established by Madan ji is doing great work to promote Indian classical music and create a close-knit community of music lovers in the Bay Area. I had a wonderful time in San Francisco during my US trip, thanks to Shatatantri Media LLC.
May you fly highest Madan ji! Best wishes.
Ragini
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Says Vivek Sonar –
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Madan Ji’s Music Touches the Soul
Madan Ji’s mastery of the Santoor is a profound manifestation of emotion and elegance. Each note he plays emanates from the very core of his being, carrying with it a rare depth of feeling and grace. In doing so, he continues the timeless legacy of the illustrious Santoor maestro, Pandit Shivkumar Sharma, with unwavering reverence and artistry.
Every time I listen to his performance, I am transported to the spirit of Pandit Shivkumar Sharma — where the same transcendent depth, serene poise, and devotional purity resonate through the music.
Audiences often speak of how Madan Ji’s playing takes them to a tranquil and blissful realm, where time seems to stand still.
As you are aware we both have been under the guidance of our respective Gurus both Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia and Pandit Shiv Kumar Sharma and that lineage is not just due to music that has brought us closer but the
extensive traveling and all the great fun times we had during “The Legacy” Jugalbandi concert Tour of USA and Canada in 2022 has been iconic and memorable for the audiences around these countries and loved and adored by audiences across the globe.
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Madan ji is a person of very amazing talents and musical abilities. Not only is he a notable artist of Santoor having learned from the best, but holds many laudable accolades and honors and achievements. He sings wonderfully also, and above all, he has a large heart, and treats the community and folks with great kindness and educates us of the classical cultures and stewards and spreads that with fine enthusiasm and leadership. We are in awe and happy to be considered as friends:)
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Says Chhaya Rajgor –
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Whether it is Santoor playing, singing a soulful Rafi melody or having a heart to heart conversation about music, Madan ji does it all with such ease and purity. I have been fortunate to get introduced to Madan ji through the local music events in the bay area and consider myself lucky to be calling him a dear friend. Every note through Madan ji’s Santoor has the finesse and power to take the listeners in a different world. Whether it is playing different ragas (Mishra Pahadi being my favorite of his renditions) or jamming on a jugalbandi with another musician, every moment of his classical concerts is an emotional experience and a pure bliss. As a disciple of the legendary Pandit Shivkumar Sharma ji, Madan ji has not only learned and absorbed the best knowledge available in the field of Indian classical music but has also continued the ‘guru-shishya’ parampara by opening a music organization/school in the bay area. He is also a great mentor to many of his friends. I have had an opportunity to sing with Madan ji in some of the local bay area music events. My absolute pleasure and honor. Dear Madan ji, Wishing you the very best in all your future endeavors. May you continue to be blessed by Ma Sarasvati and spread the joy and magic of music for decades to come! Warm Regards, Chhaya Rajgor
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Says Vaibhav Gaitonde
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There are some people in this world whose presence radiates not just talent, but also genuine humility, passion, and purpose. Madan Oak is one of them. A dear friend and an incredible artist, his journey with the Santoor and his overall approach to music has always inspired me.
A devoted disciple of Padma Vibhushan Pt. Shivkumar Sharma, Madan has spent decades immersing himself in the world of Indian classical music, bringing soul to every note he plays, no matter where in the world he’s performing. Whether it’s a raga on the Santoor or a classic Bollywood tune sung from the heart, there’s a warmth and richness in his music that truly reflects his deep connection to Indian traditions.
Recently, with his groundbreaking creation of the world’s first 35-Bridge Santoor, Madan has once again shown how he blends tradition with innovation so effortlessly. And through Shatatantri Media, the academy he founded, he’s given countless kids in USA a chance to learn and connect with our cultural roots, a true gift.
His brainchild TIHAI, a festival of classical maestros, speaks volumes of his vision in bringing the magic of Indian classical music to the global stage, featuring legends right here in the Bay Area and giving students of music like me a chance to participate on stage with several legendary artists.
What I really admire most, though, is Madan’s warmth, humility, and the quiet strength with which he’s stayed committed to his path all these years. Watching him grow and evolve in his musical journey over the last two decades has been a real privilege.
Wishing you continued success, joy, and inspiration in all you do, Madan. Your music speaks to the soul and your friendship truly means the world. Keep shining, my friend, mentor, and guide.
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Says Sonia Monga Sohal
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Madan ji is a very talented musical artist.
His voice carries the soul of Bollywood music—rich, emotive, and timeless. As a santoor player, he brings a rare elegance and spiritual depth to every performance. The way he blends classical finesse with contemporary charm is nothing short of magical.
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Says Rahul Pandhe
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We are so fortunate to have an artist of a high callibre that Madan Oak ji is amongst us here in Bay Area, California. He is well renowned in India and globally for his Santoor performances.
He is an inspiration to many with his continuous support to cultural and music events . Any one who has experienced his Santoor program will know that he leaves the audience in a spiritual trance.
To many who know him closely, he is also an amazing singer.
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Says Bee TheMusafir (Bharati Nair)
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Kya kahoon ke shabhdhon ki kami hai shayad
Hoton per hai muskaan hai magar aankhon main nami hai shayad…
Madanji you are not just a multifaceted personality but a truly humble persona. Your jovial energies and positive vibes always makes me feel rejuvenated and your singing and santoor vadaan talent makes each moment so beautiful and precious for me.
All I can say is I feel truly blessed to know you.
Thank you for being You!
Loads of love and best wishes to you
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says Rashmi Raoot – Pune
एक और सूरमयी शाम!!
Fantastic program Madanji.
Thank you so much for inviting us.
रफ़ी-सागरातून एक एक सुंदर मोती निवडले तुम्ही आणि त्यांना संपूर्ण न्याय दिला. Almost all songs were fully known with theirs lyrics. अगदी तोंडपाठ होती गाणी.
तुम्ही खूप सुरेख गायलात. Specially high pitch/ scale songs were sung so amazingly.
Can’t believe one person with so many talents and skills!! You played Santoor, sang Rafiji… Madhavi told me that you only managed all the show-related things, coordinated with India team etc. Flawless job!!! Hats off!
Manjushreeji and Swapnaja mam were also fabulous. Very sweet voices and command over all the songs they sang.
I must mention the orchestra as well. All expert players.
And cherry on the cake was the compering by Shri. Rahul S. किती छान छान आठवणी सांगितल्या रफ़ी साहेबांच्या. OMG! फार मजा आली.
Once again thank you very much Madanji…. We could thoroughly enjoy this रफ़ीमय evening because of you.
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