A sitarist is a musician who plays the sitar, a traditional stringed instrument from the Indian subcontinent. The sitar has a long neck, a gourd-shaped body, and typically features six or seven main strings along with sympathetic strings that resonate to create a rich sound. Sitarists often perform classical Indian music, which is characterized by intricate melodies and rhythms. Sitarists may also collaborate with other musicians, including those who play instruments like the tabla or harmonium. Notable sitarists, such as Ravi Shankar, have popularized the instrument worldwide, bridging cultural gaps and introducing audiences to the beauty of Indian classical music.