KARAN KHOSLA
Jazz Guitarist & Educator, India
A Journey of Musical Reinvention
Originally trained as a physicist, Karan Khosla spent his 20s in impact investment and consulting. But at the late age of 32, he took a bold leap—balancing a full-time career while pursuing formal music education—to pursue his lifelong passion for storytelling through sound. Today, he’s a compelling, multi-dimensional voice in South Asian instrumental music and considered as one of India's leading jazz guitarists.
Contributing to India's Musical Landscape
A long-time protégé of American jazz guitar master Jonathan Kreisberg, Karan honed his craft under one of contemporary jazz’s most innovative voices.
As a first-call session guitarist, he has collaborated with local and international artists, bringing a distinctive sound and strong technical command to each project. His compositions blend traditional jazz with modern influences, reaching audiences across India and the wider diaspora.
In 2024, Karan released his EP Horizons, featuring three critically acclaimed singles:
• “Genesis” – Named Song of the Week by All About Jazz, leading to an invitation to contribute as a writer representing South Asia
• “Flux” – Featured in Rolling Stone India’s Indie Unpacked series for its energy and improvisational depth
• “Serenity” – Inspired by The Carpenters and Brad Mehldau; covered by Hindustan Times and Firstpost
He has performed at leading festivals including the Jazz India Circuit, Serendipity Arts Festival, and UNESCO International Jazz Day 2023. His collaborators include Ben van den Dungen and Amber Kuti Smith. He also co-wrote and played guitar on Constitution of Love by New Delhi rock band The Limited Experience. Upcoming singles “Written in the Weather,” “Nowhere to Run,” and “Bring Down the House” are set for late 2025.
Karan has played a key role in shaping India’s jazz scene through extensive performance, collaboration, teaching, and curation—creating spaces for musicians to grow.
He is also a contributor to All About Jazz, where he documents the evolving South Asian jazz landscape, highlighting its artists, stories, and communities.
Nurturing Talent at Goa Jazz Academy
As co-founder of the Goa Jazz Academy, Karan is deeply committed to building India’s jazz future. The Academy has grown to 400+ students in just four years, delivering world-class programs and hosting over 50 events, including a grand International Jazz Day celebration with UNESCO.
Matt Warnock (formerly of JazzGuitar.be) hails him as “a performer and teacher of the highest quality,” known for a rare ability to connect with students and audiences alike.
GET IN TOUCH!
c/o, The Goa Jazz Academy,
No. 730 St. Anton Vaddo,
Guirim, North Goa, 403507
+91 98 10 73 22 15
