Ustad Shafaat Khan, world-renowned Sitar virtuoso. With his deep-rooted musical heritage and unparalleled mastery of sitar, surbahar, tabla, and vocals, Maestro Khan  has performed and captivated audiences worldwide—from India and Europe to the U.S. and Japan—sharing stages with Stevie Wonder (Bonnaroo) and Ray Charles (Germany TV). Representing the ImdadKhani Gharana he is the son of the legendary Ustad Imrat Khan and nephew of Ustad Vilayet Khan.

He also released a historic CD recording featuring solo performances on sitar and surbahar, while accompanying himself on tabla—a rare accomplishment that highlights his exceptional artistry and command of multiple classical Indian instruments.  

His latest project, East Meets West, blends Indian classical/Folk music with jazz, Pop, flamenco, rock, and world rhythms—a powerful, cross-cultural concert that’s both engaging and educational.

Beledo, originally from Uruguay, is a New York–based guitarist and pianist known internationally for his albums and collaborations with artists including Ustad Shafaat Khan, Bakithi Kumalo, Randy Brecker, Stefon Harris, Mino Cinelu, Tito Puente, and Celia Cruz. He has toured worldwide across the U.S., South America, Europe, Asia, and Australia, opening for Ustad Shafaat Khan and jazz-fusion legends Soft Machine and Allan Holdsworth. Versed in classical theory, composition, and global musical traditions, Beledo is recognized as a highly versatile and accomplished artist. 

Daniel Johnson’s path in music has been a journey from the pounding percussive energy of performing with Philadelphia’s 20 member Spoken Hand Percussion Orchestra, to the Freedom and Vibe performing with Miles Davis alum’s Badal Roy’s “Dharma Jazz” to the intense depth of Tabla player to North Indian Classical Sitar legend Ustad Shafaat Khan. These and many more projects including being a percussionist at Princeton University for the department of Modern Dance have kept him moving further into subtle pulsation.

Dr. Amineh Hoti is a social anthropologist trained with a PhD in anthropology at the University of Cambridge, UK. Her work bridges scholarship, policy, and peacebuilding. Her book “Gems and Jewels” about the ten religious communities of South Asia was used as the inspiration and blueprint for the Cambridge foundation course. Dr. Hoti’s work combines rigorous field research with practical engagement, making her a compelling voice on intercultural understanding, and peacebuilding in an era of global uncertainty.

She will speak on the nuanced and deeply human exploration of South Asia’s religious landscape, illuminating the spiritual traditions that have shaped its culture and social fabric.