Sound Artist, Ceremonialist & Integrative Sound Healing Practitioner
Sahar is a Los Angeles–based sound artist whose work is deeply informed by her South Asian, Middle Eastern, and Muslim heritage. Her artistic journey emerged from a period of profound spiritual inquiry, during which she rediscovered Islam through Sufism and pursued a Master’s degree in Religious Studies, exploring the intersections of Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism.
Through this academic and spiritual exploration, Sahar found healing in traditional Sufi practices such as qawwali, devotional poetry, and zikr, while also seeking alternative modalities to address inner conflict and emotional well-being. This search led her to sound healing, which she embraced alongside formal training in Hindustani classical music, sitar, vocal studies, and raga-based composition.
Recognizing the lack of spaces that authentically reflected her cultural and spiritual experience, Sahar developed a unique sound practice that weaves together sound healing techniques with ancestral musical traditions. Her work integrates Sufi values, raga-based structures, and sitar techniques, creating immersive experiences where Eastern wisdom and contemporary sound practices meet.
SESSIONS
Sound Artist, Tai Chi Instructor & Sound Healing Practitioner
Manak Khamvongsa is a sitar practitioner, instructor, and performing artist trained under the guidance of Rajib Karmakar, working within the traditions of Hindustani classical music with an emphasis on raga development, tonal sensitivity, and mindful musicianship.
Alongside his musical training, Manak brings over two decades of experience in Tai Chi and internal movement practices, which deeply inform his musical approach. His interdisciplinary background supports a teaching and performance style rooted in breath awareness, balance, presence, and inner stillness, allowing students and listeners to experience music as both an art form and a contemplative practice.
As a performer, Manak regularly offers live sitar performances in wellness and arts-based settings. He provides sitar accompaniment for Wednesday evening restorative yoga classes, leads and performs in monthly Sacred Sound Baths, and contributes to sound immersion experiences designed for relaxation, reflection, and healing. His performances emphasize gentle raga exploration, sustained resonance, and a calming sonic environment. As an instructor, Manak focuses on foundational sitar technique, posture, right- and left-hand coordination, raga structure, and attentive listening, creating a calm and supportive learning environment for beginners and continuing students alike.
