Music
Vijayalakshmi Navaneethakrishnan: The Saviour of Tamil Folk Art
Spending years and years of research, Vijayalakshmi Navaneethakrishnan revived and recorded ancient Tamil folk songs

Vijayalakshmi Navaneethakrishnan is a name that changed the scene for Tamil folk songs. In an age when film songs have taken over the music industry, Vijayalakshmi recorded Tamil folk songs on cassettes making it a favourite of Tamil Nadu. Folk songs enjoy popularity only in the places they have sprung out from. In the 1990s, with the release of Vijayalakshmi’s Tamil folk song cassettes, a huge commercial market opened up for Tamil folk songs. Her extraordinary contribution to Tamil folk music gained her the nation’s fourth-highest civilian award, Padma Shri, in 2018.
Reviving The Spirit of the Past
Compiling folk songs is not an easy task as they arise from a particular region and pass around from one generation to another, without any written recordings. The spirit of folk songs lies in this oral transmission among people. Vijayalakshmi Navaneethakrishnan took upon herself the task of researching, reviving and recording the precious gems of Tamil folk art. Years of research went behind her every song of hers, but she was successful in bringing the folk songs heard in remote villages to the lips of the city dwellers. That is where Vijayalakshmi’s research bears fruition.
Her husband, Navaneethakrishnan played a huge role in her folk art research. They understood each other’s passion for folk music during their days in Madurai Kamarajar University. Together, they brought out several albums of authentic Tamil folk songs. Even after retirement as professors from the Department of Folk Arts and Culture, the couple continued with their efforts to revive Tamil folk art. Connoisseurs and lovers of folk music seek them out to conduct performances.
Vijayalaksmi Navaneethakrishnan’s Success
With the release of her cassettes, her folk songs became immensely popular in Tamil Nadu. You cannot find Tamilians who haven’t hummed “Thottu kadai orathile” even once. It is not just entertaining lyrics that make her songs popular. It is also the diversity and variations Vijayalakshmi introduces with each song. She could easily digress from talking about food to love in a single song. We see that in “Jothinila pola appam”. Her songs are also packed with information and scientific themes as in “Yettu anu oru immi”. ‘Gummipaattu’ by Vijayalaksmi is also highly favoured by people, without which Amman temple festivities are incomplete. Her songs have made appearances in some movies along with her.
Vijayalakshmi’s Contribution to Folk Art
Vijayalakshmi Navaneethakrishnan would remain a pivotal figure in Tamil folk art as long as it remains. Folk music is an art that we see dying off quietly in today’s age of pop culture. If not for people like Vijayalakshmi and her husband, Navaneethakrishnan, Tamil folk songs would have become a thing of the distant past. They remind us to grab hold of our rich folk heritage, celebrate it and savour it.
Music
Harmony of Healing: Exploring Mental Health Through Music
Immerse yourself in the therapeutic symphony of art performances. Discover the impact of music on mental health as we delve into its healing power.

In the realm of mental health, where silence often reigns and stigma persists, art performances and emerging as powerful tools for breaking the chains surrounding the topic. Among these diverse forms of artistic expression, music takes centre stage, proving to be a transformative force in healing mental health. Let’s delve into the deep impact of mental health art performances and the therapeutic resonance of music.
“Holding On” by Sanjay Maroo
These poignant words set the stage for a musical journey that explores the dualities of life- the euphoria of success and the depths of rejection and fear. The song is a dedication to those who persist and refuse to surrender their dreams despite setbacks. It’s a call to awaken those who may have quietly moved away, urging them that it’s never too late to try again. The artist shares personal experiences passionately pursuing a dream, basking in the glory of success, but also grappling with the pain of rejection and the haunting fear of failure.
“Nahi Hu Mai Theek” by Vasu Kainth
In a bold and crucial move, an artist addresses the often stigmatized topic of mental illness through his song “Nahi Hu Mai Theek”. This musical composition shines a light on the shadows that mental health struggles cast on individuals. By bringing mental health struggles to the spotlight, the artist contributes to breaking the silence and dispelling the stigma that surrounds it. The song becomes a voice for those who grapple with invisible battles within their minds, creating space for empathy and understanding.
Sitar for Mental Health by Rishab Rikhiram Sharma
Sitar for Mental Health gives us a unique blend of ancient practices and contemporary experiences, utilizing traditional Indian Classical music as a powerful medium. The goal is to invoke states of deep reflection, receptivity and introspection, fostering awareness about mental health through the auditory sensory processing system.
These immersive experiences last around 60 minutes and go beyond the boundaries of conventional performances. They incorporate a variety of instruments, including the Khartal, Sound Bowls, Daf, and deep percussion, creating a multi-sensory journey. The focus is not merely on music but on the silence between notes, encouraging deep listening and gradual adoption of musical improvisation and consciousness.
Rishab, the artist behind Sitar for Mental Health, skillfully navigates the Sitar as a tool for transformation. The audience is taken on a journey that begins with a personal intention, allowing them to sense and visualize their emotions. The experience encourages letting go of mental and physical attachments in that moment, providing a therapeutic space for introspection and healing.
Music
Latest Musical Releases That Tug at the Heartstrings
We bring you a collection of some of the latest musical releases that are sure to pull at your heart and touch your soul.

In the dynamic world of music, every store carries a story and each melody paints a vivid picture of emotion. The latest music releases have taken up this ethos, offering a diverse range of tunes that resonate with the human experience. Let’s dive into the enchanting world of these musical masterpieces.
“You Are A Criminal” by Mallika Mehta
“You Are a Criminal” by Mallika Mehta is her latest creation which is a powerful emotional orchestral pop composition. The song invites listeners on a compelling journey through the intricate nuances of heartbreak and betrayal. Mallika’s passionate delivery breathes life into every emotion, making that track a poignant experience for anyone who has ever felt the sting of betrayal. With a fusion of soul-stirring lyrics and a captivating melody; “You Are a Criminal” stands as a must-listen, promising an emotional rollercoaster that leaves a lasting impression.
“Neem Neem” by Anurag Sinha, Yasser Desai & MFA Records
Presented by Anurag Sinha and MFA Records, “Neem Neem” is a melodious masterpiece that enchants the soul. Sung by the talented Yasser Desai, and featuring the voices of Manmeet Kaur and Jatin Suri, this song is a musical journey that transcends the ordinary. The enchanting melodies of “Neem Neem” promise to send the listeners to a world of soothing tunes and heartfelt emotions. The video, a visual delight, shows us a captivating performance that promises to tug at the heartstrings. “Neem Neem” is a chartbuster in the making, offering an unforgettable musical experience.
“Tu Jo Paas” by Suzon
“Tu Jo Paas” is a light at the end of a dark tunnel. The song expresses deep emotions of joy and reliability in a romantic relationship. The singer finds immense happiness and a positive demeanour when their loved one is close, emphasizing that without them, life feels dull, The recurring desire to maintain this laughter and joy and a plea to never leave, creates a sense of security. The verses beautifully intertwine feelings of love and simplicity, portraying the beloved’s impact on every aspect of the singer’s life. Acknowledging the loved ones’ role in fulfilling aspirations and being the anchor in times of emotional turbulence adds layers of depth to the lyrics.
“Hi” by THE 9TEEN
“Hi” by THE 9TEEN is a soulful and poignant melody, “Hi” captures the essence of connection and strength that emerges from challenging circumstances. “Hi” intricately weaves a narrative of what two individuals experience when physically distant but emotionally close. The song is creative and a breath of fresh air with stunning vocals, and visuals.
“Mann” by The Yellow Diary
“Mann” is a song that is sure to touch your heart. In a heartwarming video, Moses discovers Tarini’s lost diary in a busy metro station. What happens after is a meeting by chance that unfolds as they connect over the diary’s pages, leading to laughter and shared moments. This touching tale shows us how fate, in the form of a lost diary, can unite two strangers and blossom a heartwarming friendship.
These latest music releases offer a rich tapestry of emotions, from heartwarming to heartwrenching. Each song sings a unique story, creating a melodic journey that resonates with listeners on a deeply personal level. Whether you seek the emotional intensity of betrayal, the enchantment of soulful melodies, the resilience found in love, the strength born from distance, or the heartwarming joy of newfound friendship, these songs promise an unforgettable musical experience. So, immerse yourself in the beauty of these compositions, let the melodies carry you away, and savour the profound emotions they evoke.
Music
A Song For A Mood
Confused about what song to play and how to set the mood for the day? Don’t worry because we’ve got you covered!

How often do you open Spotify or YouTube and give up because you just can’t find the right song to match your mood? It’s hard but hey once you find the right one you won’t be able to stop playing it on repeat. We understand your pain and we understand the joy that you experience and hence to make your life a whole lot easier we present to you a playlist that will surely evoke a lot of emotions.
Humne Bhi by The Western Ghats
With a catchy beat with soulful lyrics and melody, this song brings out a lot of emotion. Ranging from happy to nostalgic to a tab bit melancholy, this song is bound to bring a subconscious smile to your face. With vocals that will make any none morning person wake up with a peaceful smile, this song is for days when you just wish to vibe with a song in your room.
Mumkin Nahin by Khanabadosh
The feeling of heartbreak after a breakup is something almost everyone is familiar with. The change in environment and life in general that this particular phase brings is not something small. Some may try to hold onto that past in some way, through friendship or otherwise, but it’s not always possible or clean. Expressing the messy aftermath of a breakup where a couple decides to remain friends but doesn’t succeed in leaving it all behind, this song is a reminder that sometimes life moves on irrespective of whether we are ready or not. And although our past will hold a piece of us, it will only be a piece never the whole. It’s a song for days when you just can’t let go and keep up with the change.
Tootay Unplugged by Ankur Tewari
Another song that deals with the theme of loss and the pain of moving on. A soothing vocal accompanied by heartful lyrics this song will soothe any unrest soul. It’s one of those rare beauties with such great lyrics that they will leave you gasping in awe. The metaphors that each line brings out are absolutely beautiful. It’s a song for days when you are at a loss of words for the loss you’re feeling within.
Jaan Baaki by Shubham Kabra
A song that will make you bawl your eyes out with tears of sadness and love, this is a song that you just can’t stop appreciating. The way the music video switches between past and present help enhance your understanding of the lyrics. Two lovers bound together by one soul, and how lonely one becomes in the absence of another but still trudges forward in life is very beautifully portrayed in the video. Plug into your earphones and let the soothing vocals of Shubham Kabra and the hum-worthy melody of the song take you on a journey of cherishing true love.
Tere saath by Choloman Chhondo
A song to dedicate your special someone, it’s a song that will surely remind them how special you truly are to them. An adorable song with a joyous melody, this song will make you dance in your room with joy and happiness. And if somebody dedicates it to you, you will most likely blush from head to toe with love.
Hope these songs evoke a range of emotions in you as they did in us when we curated this playlist for you.
Music
Musical Originals: Weaving Melodic Tapestries
Join us as we unveil a tapestry of original compositions that beckon you into uncharted musical territories.

The world of music is a magical one in itself. Our contemporary and industrial compositions are wonderful to groove to and adding to them are our musical originals composed by independent artists. They intertwine notes like whispers of the heart and make melodies waltz. Original music composers emerge as an ode to the boundless creativity of human expression. Today we have with us a compilation consisting of a few such musical originals, let us take you on a symphonic journey that captures our shared human experience.
“Humne Bhi” by Rishi Kumar
Humne Bhi by Rishi Kumar is a melodic masterpiece that is an absolute joy to listen to. The artists’ tunes, instrumentals, and voices wonderfully complement each other. The lyrics are playful and mischievous at the same time very thoughtful. The intonations of the artist’s voices are to make a place in the heart of the audience, leaving them humming the tune all day long. Humne Bhi by Rishi Kumar is truly a soulful musical original.
“Baatein Purani” by Shubham Agrawal
Baatein Purani by Shubham Agrawal is melancholic melody. The music effortlessly takes the audience back to that one person, the one who got away. On the surface, the song is soft and calming, but upon hearing the lyrics carefully you will find yourself missing the person you’ve loved but arent together anymore. Baatein Purani by Shubham Agrawal is a beautiful musical original that leaves a lingering magic once you’ve heard it.
“Dariya” by Vismay Patel
Dariya by Vismay Patel is an enchanting musical original. The music and lyrics resonate with the idea of finding yourself a moment and space in the chaos of daily life. The lyrics take the audience to a place they just want to claim as their own. The song is intricately crafted with giving the sense of being alone without being lonely, of just being still. Dariya by Vismay Patel is an adorable song sure to find its special corner in your heart.
“Tu Jae Jahan” by Osho Jain ft Sanchi
Tu Jae Jahan by Osho Jain is a whimsical cute melody. The music is light and toe-tapping and gets the audience grooving. The lyrics are overflowing with the beauty and novelty of love. The song resonates with the theme of wanting to be where your lover is, of never wanting to spend a single moment apart. Tu Jae Jahan by Osho Jain is a light-hearted song that will have you singing along to every word once you hear it.
“Khaali Daraze” by Sarthak Bhardwaj feat. Kashish Arora
Khaali Daraze by Sarthak Bhardwaj is a soulful, heartwrenching, tear-jerking song that is so beautiful to listen to, it will render you speechless. The tunes and the lyrics are so well crafted and complement each other. The duet adds to the beauty of the song. The music brings out beautifully the duality of human emotions, how the one thing or person who brought a smile upon your face, can now, through mere memory jog up emotions of regret and reminiscence. Khaali Daraze by Sarthak Bharadwaj is such a raw and beautiful musical original which is sure to have the audience clenching their hearts in awe.
We hope you enjoyed this little compilation of original musicals.
Music
Beyond the Mainstream: Spotlight on Indie Musical Artists
Where Creativity and Authenticity Take Center Stage. These indie musicians redefine the boundaries of music.

Indie musicians embrace the do-it-yourself ethos and take control of the artistic direction, production, and promotion. They provide vitality to the musical landscape, reinforcing the power of artistic independence. Their autonomy allows them to explore a wide range of genres and experiment with sounds, resulting in a rich tapestry of musical expressions. Indie musicians invite us on a journey that broadens our perspective and opens us to new possibilities. Tune into our compilation and explore the depths of indie music.
Raaz Tera Mera by Akanksha Sethi
“Raaz Tera Mera” by Akanksha Sethi is a melodious song with soft light tunes. The lyrics speak of friendship and the unique unbreakable bond between two close friends. From their late-night conversations to their memories that are etched in time forever. The song takes us to the safe space that we only share with our closest friends, a room away from harsh reality, where we can be oblivious to our adversities for a bit, a place we share and long to return to at all times.
Kya Hai Darr by Vasuda Sharma
“Kya Hai Darr” by Vasuda Sharma is an energetic upbeat song with tunes that make you groove. The lyrics speak of taking charge of our thoughts and actions, if we take control of our lives we can overcome any obstacle without any fear. The song reinforces the notion of not being held back by fear, we are the only ones in control of our lives and experiences and nothing should hold us back from them.
We Made Us by Vaani Bhasin
“We Made Us” by Vaani Bhasin is a soft and light song. The lyrics are simple and straight from the heart. The song resounds with authenticity and the beauty of vulnerability and emotions. It’s a delightful refreshing melody that sings about love, focusing on the little details, especially of falling in love. Hearing the song makes one feel warm and brings a smile to our face.
Rijhaaun by Ustavi Jha
“Rijhaaun” by Utsavi Jha is a soothing song with a jazzy tune. The lyrics are well-crafted and talk about the healing power of love. The song also sings about gratitude towards the people who heal us and look out for us and about how we can reciprocate and give back to them. The music is catchy and will have you grooving to the tunes. With its jazzy beats and meaningful words, this composition is a wave of fusion and creativity.
Tum Mujhe Jaante Ho by Trishita Recs
“Tum Mujhe Jaante Ho” by Trishita Recs is a peppy instrumental song. The lyrics are catchy, a testament to the unconditional, healing, genuine bonds we make, and are rare to come across. The song sings for us the feeling of being understood and loved by people who know you inside out, the good and the bad, whether you show it or not, they know what’s going on just by looking at you. The composition is an ode to the bonds that have stood the test of time, distance and adversities.
Wherever I Go I’d Like To Be All I Need by Tanmaya Bhatnagar
“Wherever I Go I’d Like To Be All I Need” by Tanmaya Bhatnagar is a light and airy song. The lyrics are melancholy and filled with a sense of being alone, enjoying the loneliness and longing for company. Although lyrics are simple, they have a much deeper meaning and will strike a cord directly in the hearts of the listeners. The composition is wonderfully crafted and well-paced.
Indie musicians are set apart by their dedication to honest storytelling. Their lyrics explore personal experiences, social commentary, and introspective reflections. They take on themes like love, loss, identity, and societal issues, forming a connection with listeners and an emotional level.
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