What began as a small tabla class in a classroom at Natest Primary School in Phoenix has grown into one of South Africa’s most respected tabla schools.

Guru Gopalan’s School of Drums (GGSD), under the leadership of internationally acclaimed tabla maestro, Guru Deshan ‘Styler’ Naidoo, celebrated its 15th anniversary with a banquet on Sunday, July 5.

Students, parents, alumni, and supporters gathered to honour the school’s journey of musical excellence, cultural preservation, and community building.

The celebration began with a spiritual prayer ceremony led by Guru Styler, who first sought the blessings of his mother before paying tribute to his ParamGuru, Ashley Kisten, and honouring the memory of his late MahaGuru, Gopalan Govender, after whom the school is named.

The ceremony reflected the values of humility, gratitude and respect that underpin Indian classical music.

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Since opening in 2011, GGSD has trained more than 100 students from across KwaZulu-Natal. Welcoming learners from as young as five-years-old through to adults, the school has become a place where parents and children learn together, siblings perform side by side, and lifelong friendships are formed.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the school continued lessons online, ensuring students remained connected to their music.

Guests were treated to performances by students across all three levels of the school, showcasing original compositions by Guru Styler and demonstrating the confidence, discipline and technical skill developed through years of training.

Former student, Sachin Veerasamy, who joined GGSD at the age of four and now studies at Stellenbosch University, reflected on the school’s lasting influence, crediting it with instilling confidence, discipline and lifelong values.

Addressing the gathering, ParamGuru Ashley Kisten praised Guru Styler’s dedication to preserving Indian classical music and building a school that has strengthened families while creating opportunities for young musicians.

He also commended Guru Styler for leading South African students to Chennai, India, where they performed before international audiences. During the event, Guru Styler and his senior students honoured ParamGuru Kisten with a ceremonial shawl, a symbol of gratitude and respect in Indian classical tradition.

The celebration also marked the first anniversary of GGSD’s landmark tour to Chennai, where 14 students from GGSD and Styler Music Academy performed in the birthplace of Carnatic music. During the visit, Guru Styler received the prestigious Global Maestro Raga Ratna Award for his contribution to Indian classical music.

Closing the celebration, Guru Styler thanked students, parents, volunteers, sponsors and supporters for helping shape the school’s success over the past 15 years.

The afternoon ended with the cutting of the anniversary cake, celebrating a milestone built on dedication, friendship and a shared passion for music. Today, GGSD continues to inspire young musicians while ensuring the rich traditions of Indian classical music flourish for future generations.