India, Sept. 29 -- For American musician, composer and television personality, Jon Batiste, India is not just another stop on his global Maestro Tour. The Grammy and Oscar-winning musician, who will be performing in the country for the first time, traces his connect with India back to his childhood in Louisiana. Long before he was celebrated as one of the most versatile musicians of his generation, the 38-year-old was already absorbing Indian sounds and rhythms in the most unexpected setting - his own neighbourhood.

"I was able to have an early exposure to Indian music and culture when I was growing up in Louisiana. My father had a friend, a neighbour, who was born in India. He would often host us at his home, or create events for Indian...