I am beyond thrilled to share a recent milestone in my musical journey. On Sunday, 27th October 2024, I had the incredible honour of performing on BBC One’s Sunday Morning Live show! During the programme, I performed “Rising Sun” from my latest album, Sama – my first-ever original piece. “Rising Sun” captures the theme of new beginnings, making it a perfect fit for Diwali as it celebrates the light of a new day. I also had the chance to speak about the significance of Bhajans, Diwali, and how these traditions have deeply shaped my life and music. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to share my music on such a wide platform to see it reaching new hearts and ears.
I shared my mission to #KeepBhajansAlive
In my segment, I shared my mission behind #KeepBhajansAlive, an initiative aimed at preserving and revitalising traditional devotional music. To me, Bhajans are far more than music; their history and origins are deeply spiritual and uplifting. The word “Bhajan” comes from Sanskrit, meaning “to share” or “to worship,”. Bhajans are usually sung in groups with repetitive words, encouraging unity and connection. The beauty of this style of music is that you don’t need to understand the language to feel the vibrations and connect with it. Bhajans are my go-to for any mood or occasion, whether to celebrate, reflect, or remember.
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Losing Bhajans would be like losing Christmas carols
Yet, over time, the appeal of Bhajans has faded. Losing Bhajans would be like losing Christmas carols; we would lose a piece of cultural history that brings people together. Through #KeepBhajansAlive, I blend traditional Bhajans with modern instruments like the saxophone and drums to appeal to all generations while honouring the music’s cultural heritage. The response has been incredible – people of all ages are connecting with Bhajans, reminiscing about family memories, and sharing these songs with loved ones. There’s even been a generational shift – the younger audience is now bringing their grandparents to our events, creating a beautiful, full-circle moment for the tradition.
Reflecting on this journey, I know my Bapuji would be so proud. He introduced me to Bhajans, and I spent countless hours by his side at Bhajan events as a child. Those moments shaped my love for this music and laid the foundation for everything I do today. To go from those cherished memories to performing my own music on national television feels both humbling and encouraging. I am so grateful for the opportunity to share these traditions with a wider audience and to keep this heritage alive for future generations.
With Diwali approaching, this BBC appearance feels even more meaningful. Diwali is a time to gather with family and friends, enjoy festive food, decorate our homes with light, and celebrate community. It brings the same warmth that Bhajans inspire, reminding us all to treasure these connections.
Thank you to everyone who tuned in or sent kind messages of support. If you missed it, you can watch the full feature on my YouTube channel and share in this special moment with me.
