Dr. Nikhil Vithoba Bhagat is a distinguished tabla artist and academic, currently serving as an Associate Professor in the Department of Instrumental Music at the Faculty of Performing Arts, Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi. He holds a Ph.D. in Tabla from Amravati University and has received top honors in his postgraduate music education, including an M.A. in Tabla from the University of Pune and a Sangeet Alankar from Akhil Bharatiya Gandharva Mahavidyalaya. He is also a recipient of the UGC-NET/JRF and has been honored with the prestigious Rashtra Gaurav Award at the national level.

Dr. Bhagat has presented numerous research papers at national and international conferences, with topics ranging from music pedagogy and technology in music education to in-depth studies on tabla compositions and the legacy of legendary maestros. His international academic contributions include presentations in Thailand and Sri Lanka, and participation in symposiums organized by institutions such as the University of Visual and Performing Arts, Colombo, and Chaingmai University.

A prolific author, Dr. Bhagat has published extensively in UGC CARE-listed journals and national research publications. His works cover a wide array of topics including rhythm theory, performance analysis, and music therapy. His notable publications include research on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Indian music pedagogy and detailed studies on the contributions of Ustad Amir Hussain Khan.

As a performer, Dr. Bhagat has showcased his talent across India and abroad. He has performed tabla solos and accompaniments in major cities like Chennai, Delhi, Kolkata, and Kochi, and internationally in Thailand and Sri Lanka. He has accompanied legendary artists such as Pt. Ajay Pohankar, Pt. Vikas Kashalkar, Vidushi Purnima Chaudhuri, and Pt. Nityanand Haldipur.

His teaching philosophy is deeply rooted in the traditional Guru-Shishya Parampara while embracing modern methodologies. Dr. Bhagat is also actively involved in academic leadership, having served as Chairman of the Board of Studies at Shivaji University, Kolhapur, and as an approved Ph.D. guide for Sangeetacharya at Akhil Bharatiya Gandharva Mahavidyalaya. He has conducted numerous workshops, lecture demonstrations, and training sessions for students across India and internationally, including ongoing associations with music learners in Kerala.

With over 16 years of experience, Dr. Bhagat continues to nurture aspiring tabla artists and scholars, offering rigorous training at diploma, undergraduate, and postgraduate levels. His academic service also includes roles as examiner, subject expert, and jury member for university level music festivals and competitions.

Through his dedication to performance, scholarship, and pedagogy, Dr. Nikhil Bhagat has made significant contributions to the field of Indian classical music and remains a respected figure in the world of tabla.