North Indian classical music, a centuries-old musical tradition of great depth and richness, has influenced generations of composers across the globe. Although many of these musicians consider it the highest form of musical expression, North Indian classical music remains unfamiliar to most Western ears. And, the rapid influx of Western culture in today's era of globalization now threatens this music with tragic obsolescence.

In an unusual reversal of this cultural current, Andrew Mendelson, a 32-year-old Texas native, has dedicated his life to the study of this distinctive tradition. In 2003, at the invitation of his Guru, acclaimed sitarist Krishna Mohan Bhatt, Andrew traveled to India to study the sitar. On a whim, he entered the Sri Mahendra Bhatt Music Competition – the largest contest of its kind in the state of Rajasthan – where, astonishingly, he won first prize. Little did Andrew know that he had become the first foreigner ever to compete for, let alone win, this prestigious award.

The documentary film A Cricket in the Court of Akbar joins Andrew two years later as he returns to India to compete for the grand prize in the Tournament of Champions, the Sur Sadak gold medal. Once again, he finds he is the only American contestant. And despite talent and relentless dedication, his outsider status proves to be a tremendous obstacle to his success as a sitarist, and especially in his efforts to earn the approval of his Guru. As Andrew prepares to vie for the championship, he struggles to reconcile his western identity with his embrace of North Indian classical music – and his unprecedented efforts to excel in the competition.

Throughout the film, a variety of experts from India and the United States offer insight into the timely issue of global cultural exchange and the timeless appeal of North Indian classical music. The film breathes life into this vibrant tradition as it exposes a brand new audience to its majestic legacy.

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