Music
Playing A Beautiful Tune To The Piper: Rasika Shekar
In conversation with Rasika Shekar, we learn about her childhood visits to India and the possibility of a new album by the end of the year.

Her journey has been quite interesting to say the least. From being trained in classical music to studying Jazz, Rasika Shekar has built a space for herself that cannot go without being appreciated. Perhaps most importantly, it is a space that she has managed to fill with truly beautiful music.
Born in Dubai, Shekar recalls how, as a child, she would visit India every summer. Her time, here in the country, was spent mostly being acquainted with folk music. She began training in vocal music with her aunt in Dubai, mostly focusing on Carnatic Music. It comes as a surprise, then, that she decided to pursue Chemical Engineering for her Bachelor’s degree. However, as she explains, the more she explored music, in all its genres, she began to feel intensely drawn to it. The fact that she started listening to different genres of music, than what she was typically used to, also added to her burgeoning passion for the art form. When she finished with her Bachelor’s course, she enrolled in the Berklee College of Music, studying Jazz and Contemporary Western Music. As Shekar states, the reason for her to choose to study Jazz and Western Music was to familiarise herself with the other existing genres, ‘expanding her horizons’, as she neatly summarizes it.
When she did take her first steps in the Music Industry, Shekar made some massive strides. In 2011, Shekar, at the start of her career, went on tour with the legendary Ghulam Ali Khan. Their meeting is a story of chance and coincidence. Well, not the entirety of it. Just the bit about how the two got acquainted. When she was still doing her bachelor’s, Shekar would frequently perform, over the weekends, at numerous events. It was in one such event, when she was performing, that she was spotted by a promoter in the audience. The story goes that the promoter was insistent on having Shekar be a part of the tour, having instantly recognized her talent. When the logistics were completed and Khan had heard and approved the audio samples of Shekar’s performances, she went on to meet Khan, himself. Of course, at the time, the opportunity that presented itself to Shekar was incredible. Even now, as Shekar says, she looks back to it and is still amazed by it all.
Almost exactly a year after that, Shekar was in Mumbai studying with a mentor. She happened to meet Shankar Mahadevan, of Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy, at an event and two got talking about her tour. When Mahadevan learnt about Shekar’s tour with Ghulam Ali Khan, they invited her over to their studio. A few weeks later, when she went over to their studio, the trio, impressed with her voice, offered her an opportunity to work with them. Soon enough, their manager contacted Shekar to go on tour with the trio.
It may have been just pure coincidence that Shekar happened to meet the people that she met at opportune moments in her life. What is not up for debate, however, is the fact that each of those people recognized a unique potential in her and her ability to go further if she was given a platform. Now, with multiple concerts under her belt and a few features as a playback singer for numerous Bollywood productions, Shekar has built a truly extensive body of work on the back of her own efforts and talent. Recognition, after all, must be given where it’s due.
It’s actually fortunate that we got talking about playback singing and large scale musical productions. You see, there is this tendency to put the vocalist before everything, especially in Bollywood productions. That comes at the cost of, sometimes, marginalizing the other talent that is present on the track. Shekar sees a change coming over the last two to three years. A lot of it comes from the presence of digital platforms. Shekar talks about how some sections from some of the iconic songs of our time rests on the musicians playing the instruments. And, while she wished it had happened earlier, Shekar is glad that the change came when it did.
Now, as she gears up for releasing her next album by the end of this year, Shekar just hopes that things pan out the way she imagines them to. Things have been quite uncertain recently. However, just like she always has done, Rasika Shekar has been quietly blazing her own path in the midst of it all.
Music
These Melodies Can Absolutely Allure You
Creating opportunities does matter when it comes to talent and passion. Patience is the key towards a great career in art.

Music is addictive. And for one who sings, it’s like medicine. Their passion can only be met by singing. Here are some artists who create opportunities, follow passion and find their space in this competitive world. Age doesn’t matter; gender doesn’t, but talent and sincerity matters. The world has become quite receptive to artists of the ever-growing social media like YouTube.
Notes and Nostalgia by Advika
Gangubai Kathiawadi directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali has already been on the hitlist with beautiful songs. Entertainers from all parts of the country groove to the song Meri Jaan is now sung by Advika from a YouTube Channel called Notes and Nostalgia. With the high pitch notes and the husky voice, Advika totally nailed it. Her expressions are absolutely priceless. Her rendition of Halamati Habibo from the Beast movie is also great to watch. Advika sings Milne Hai Mujhse Aayi from Ashiqui 2 and captivates the viewers with utmost confidence.
Shouvik Saha Official
One more artist attempting another song from the same movie Gangubai Kathiawadi. A song that was molded with Archana Gore’s songs, Huma Qureshi’s expressions- Shikhayat. Shouvik Saha is a singer, writer, composer music producer, and professional dance choreographer. He was top 32 in Super Singer Season 3. His magical voice takes the listener to a higher level. Aashiyan cover song from Barfi is one of his best.
Alok Santhosh
When KGF Chapter 2 was released, it was a mark on the history of filmmaking. The craft was one of the masterpieces in the Indian commercial movie industry. The song Mehabooba is on the repeat list of many music lovers. Alok Santhosh is an upcoming singer who has beautifully sung the Malayalam version of this epic melody. The song is shot outdoors by Anand Ajesh Photography. Akhil Elapunkal perfectly does the background score. His voice is soothing and listening to it may let you find peace.
Unwind with Nimish
Nimish Shrivastava is an IIT graduate, entrepreneur, and co-founder of companies like Banyan Tree and Kuppa Tea. His busy schedule has never left him to leave his passion for singing. Creating a YouTube Channel in 2009 named Unwind with Nimish, it has released 7 videos till 2022. But his voice stands unique and wonderful. He has given tribute to Krishnakumar Kunnath Hum Rahe ha na rahe Kal. Meri Sanson Mein Basa Hai’s cover song by Nimish is beautiful and amazingly tender.
Music
Drummers Are Dreaming Heights Through Music
Brilliantly composed songs never go out of style, but can take a new one; this time featuring drums and drummers.

No talent can ever fade away. If it’s inside us, it can force us to nurture it. Sometimes, we get to have only one option but to plant it, grow it and reap fruits out of it. This gives us the best possible peace and satisfaction. Drum covers are now trending in YouTube to uplift the artists and it also gives us a chance to see such thriving talents. Many are in the nascent stages of forming music bands. With the right camera, editing equipment, and luring skills, more opportunities are waiting for our upcoming talents to enhance their own life, and by listening to them, ours too. Here are a few people who followed their passion and worked for it.
Jakestrum Drums
Ra One was a Hindi superhero movie starring Sharukh Khan and Kareena Kapoor. The song Bhare Naina from the movie was so impressively executed by Nandini Srikar. Now, this soothing melody is been sung by Archisha and Kartik. The background score is pure drums played by Jakestrum Drums. This epic drum cover gives everyone goosebumps and they are watching it repeatedly. The camera angles shooting the visuals capture the beauty of playing the drum.
Dr. Drummer
Dr. Drummer has come up with a drum cover Bijlee Bijlee. The viewers have gone crazy over the cover song. Already, the original Punjabi album by Harrdy Sandhu and Palak Tiwari is a hit with many millions of viewers. Within 2 years, this YouTube Channel has received lots of subscribers and viewers. This channel aims to help drum beginners by giving tips, tutorials, and drum hacks. He began the journey of drumming due to an incident that happened during his school time. He wants to pursue a better life ahead following his passion.
Parth Saini
Imran Hashmi is famous for his roles in all-time magical melodies of Bollywood. Adaat song from the Hindi album Kalyug sung by Atif Aslam is still in the hearts of 90s kids. The song has allured the kids to learn musical instruments. Now the outstanding drumming skills engaging with the cover song by Parth Saini are here to captivate the viewers. The brilliant beats take care of the song’s beauty. The views have gone crazy over this excellent drum cover of Adaat. His Shark Tank India music played on Piano is also a hit song on his part. He is also a music composer wanting to pursue the art of music.
Tarun Donny
Gangubai Kathiawadi has already been on the chart of music and dance covers. The Hindi movie starring Alia Bhatt has great songs. YouTube has seen many showcasing their dance and music cover performances mostly winning the hearts of many viewers. Now, Tarun Donny has come up with the drum cover of Meri Jaan. More than the playing, one could see him enjoying the beats though.
Music
Update Your Playlists with these Soothing Original Musical Compositions
Check out these original musical compositions, of the most beautiful melodies, the perfect picks for your playlists

Music is the food of the soul. Exploring Indie Music Artists has become a treasured activity, because there cannot ever be enough music. Taking a step away from mainstream music into the sphere of the lesser known musical compositions will expose you to a heavenly space. Music is often the second human language through which we’re best able to describe our feelings. Music is also like a pair of ears who listen to us, because oftentimes, they become our comfort zones, some melodies who understand us when no one does.
Here are some beautiful original musical compositions
Kahaani (Duet) – When Chai Met Toast feat. Pavithra Chari
Kahaani is an original musical composition by the Kochi band ‘When Chai Met Toast’ featuring Pavithra Chari. Kahaani will bring you both heartfelt and heartbreaking feelings. A song on the harsh realities of love, lyricist Ankur Tewari, has brought the spotlight to the bitter acceptance one has to make when love doesn’t fall into your favor. The melodies accompanied by the soothing voices will engulf you and make you experience a raw pleasure.
Dhalti Rahe – Twin Strings
Twin Strings is a four member band. Dhalti Rahe is one of their many original musical compositions. Dhalti Rahe is a sweet and charming song about the very first butterflies you feel while falling in love with someone. Very precisely and honestly, the lyrics and the melody of the song do justice to the very first sparks one experiences in love. Listening to this original by Twin Strings will have you smiling and happy in an instant.
Tu Jaanda Ae – Madhur Sharma
For Punjabi songs enthusiasts, Tu Jaanda Ae is like a treasure offered by Madhur Sharma. Accompanied by his floating and smooth voice, the song and music is a breath of fresh air. Tu Jaanda Ae is a beautiful expression of love presented through this hypnotizing musical composition. The heartwarming lyrics are penned by Sagar.
Meri Baaton Mein Tu – Anuv Jain
Anuv Jain is everyone’s favourite singer-songwriter. Anuv Jain’s 8th single, ‘Meri Baaton Mein Tu’ is a song dripped in the pains of a naïve heartbreak. Meri Baaton Mein Tu is a song 10 years in the making. Anuv Jain has great artistry over song writing. He uses deep imagery and the perfect words to spell out the incomprehensible feelings into distinct recognisable pictures. Anuv Jain’s melodious voice is like the perfect puzzle piece to his songwriting and musical compositions. Meri Baaton Mein Tu will truly mesmerize you!
Music
Some Songs Never Fail To Impress The Listeners
Cover Songs by JalRaj, Madhur Sharma, and Neha Barua are here to enchant viewers with their beautiful performances.

Arijit Singh has always been the idol of many music lovers. His voice is soothing and also somewhat brings a kind of refreshment to our ears. His song Chhod Diya from the movie Bazaar starring Saif Ali Khan, released in 2018, has now got the voice of JalRaj. The two independent songwriters and musicians Jalaj and Rajat, popularly called JalRaj, use their divine voices to sing Chhod Diya winning many hearts. With millions of subscribers, JalRaj has never failed to impress the audience This time his voice gracefully radiates the emotions of the song that is to let go of the love.
Sufi songs are heart-touching and help us find peace and dissolve us in bliss. Qawwali is a kind of Sufi devotional music. Referred to as Shehenshah-e-Qawwali (the Kings of Kings of Qawwali) Ustad Nusrat Ali Khan is one of the greatest Qawwali singers. Kehna Galat Galat and Ye Jo Halka Halka Suroor Hai are epic Sufi songs by this legend. This has been recovered by Madhur Sharma and his team with Acoustic Guitar played by Britto KC, Harmonium by Chirag Soni, Tabla by Adil Khan, Dholak by Pulkeet Kakkad, and Bass by Swapnil Tare. The background gives a historical and devotional experience. There is always a curing nature in Sufi music. Madhur Sharma efficiently transfers the peace in it to the viewers. The mesmerizing voice of Madhur and the chorus by the team plunges every viewer into deep emotions filled with serenity and harmony.
Neha Barua has come up with yet another cover song Kahaani, from the movie Laal Singh Chaddha -a movie to be released on 11th August 2022 BY Amir Khan Productions. Sung by Mohan Kannan the song and considered the heart and soul of the movie, has become popular already. The female version is been tried by Neha. The cover song arrived within just 4 days. Her beautiful expressions also let us feel the emotions behind the song. It asks about life and its interpretations by Man. For anyone who wants to feel the ‘freedom without any strings attached, the lyrics are going to be one for that.
Music
The Best Tunes to Plug in: Melodious Hindi Musical Covers
All the hindi music fans, we’ve created a special playlist for you, featuring the best musical covers and renditions

Music is the calm to the chaos in our lives. The indie artists in India are delivering a smooth sway away from Bollywood, competing that long-lived industry tremendously. For Hindi music fans, the Indie artists provide soulful, mesmerizing, and transcendental music from a wide variety of genres. Some of these artists also release musical Hindi covers, sprinkling their unique musical touches to these covers. The improvised versions, with distinct elements, are a treat for the ears, the mind and the soul. So here we’ve some of these selected covers, mashups, and more, for you to add into your playlist, and have a peaceful session for yourself!
Mujhe Tum Nazar Se (Reprise) – JalRaj
Mehdi Hassan’s iconic and legendary ghazal of all times, ‘Mujhe Tum Nazar Se’, has never left our playlists for sure! JalRaj, the musical brother duo, presents a magical reprise version of the ghazal. The music production and mix match of this version is also done by the brothers. JalRaj have always delivered the best of their musical elements, and all their covers and originals are a must listen to! This is just one piece of their lovely collection.
Old Bollywood Covers – A.C. Bharadwaj
The Bollywood songs of the pre 2000s are pure bliss and serenity. A.C. Bharadwaj covers not one, but 5 platinum Bollywood songs from the 70s-80s. This list contains the songs, Silsile, Kaanchi, Dil Ka Bhanwar, Dil Ki Kahani, Suhaana Safar. A.C. Bharadwaj has a beautiful voice, and the way he sings and sometimes stresses on specific syllables which strings a chord in your heart. Visit the older eras of Bollywood music with A.C. Bharadwaj and have a serene time for yourself.
Brown Munde x Titliyan – Nupur Pant
Hindi Mashups, especially if they are of two different genres and vibes, hit quite differently. The mixing and matching of the songs is a musical genius rendition, and to master it is quite the talent! Nupur Pant delivers us an exciting mashup of the famous Brown Munde by AP Dhillon, and the ever lovely song Titliyan by Hardy Sandhu. Nupur Pant’s voice perfectly complements this mashup, and one will definitely enjoy listening to this one.
Woh Chali Woh Chali – Aloboli Kinimi ft. Tokhuli Yepthomi
Aloboli Kinimi has the most calming and tranquillising voice ever! The musical duo Aloboli Kinimi and Tokhuli Yepthomi present a beautiful and improvised version of the much loved song, ‘Woh Chali Woh Chali’. The duo has incorporated English lyrics, and it fits in the song as if it really was a missing piece we all didn’t know about. The synchronising voices of Aloboli Kinimi and Tokhuli Yepthomi add the wonders to the song cover.
-
Editor's Pick3 weeks ago
Throwback Thursday: Legendary Konkani author V.J.P. Saldanha
-
Poetry2 weeks ago
Heartfelt Poetries Takes Us Down the Memory Lanes
-
Humara Spectrum2 weeks ago
Voices on Stage: Looking At The Stories Of The LGBTQIA+ Community
-
Poetry2 weeks ago
Read About Nayab Midha’s Khubsoorat Story Of Chasing Her Dreams
-
Humara Spectrum2 weeks ago
5 Plays that Impacted Queer Theatre History
-
Art & Craft1 week ago
The New Face of Storytelling: Presenting Stunning Art and Animations
-
Short Films1 week ago
India’s First Lesbian Web Series: The ‘Other’ Love Story
-
Editor's Pick2 weeks ago
Throwback Thursday: A Tribute to Hemant Kumar on his 102nd Birthday