On a serene evening at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC) in Mumbai, the air was thick with anticipation. The city’s premier venue for arts and culture was about to witness a performance that blended tradition, emotion, and artistry - Snehdeep Singh Kalsi’s live rendition of Raag Des.

Snehdeep Singh Kalsi - A Voice That Bridges Eras

Known for his ability to traverse genres, from Indian classical to Sufi, ghazal, and folk; Snehdeep Singh Kalsi has built a reputation for performances that feel personal, intimate, and timeless. His voice carries the discipline of rigorous classical training while still embracing the warmth and accessibility that draws audiences from all walks of life. Whether he’s performing in a grand auditorium or an intimate mehfil, his artistry lies in his ability to connect deeply with the listener, pulling them into the world of the raag he’s weaving.

Raag Des - A Song of the Soul

Raag Des is steeped in history. Traditionally associated with the monsoon season, it carries a dual essence, the freshness of rain-soaked earth and the undercurrent of national pride. It’s a raga that speaks not just to the ears but to the heart, evoking images of green fields, flowing rivers, and the spirit of a united India.
In Snehdeep’s hands, Raag Des transformed into an experience. With each note on the harmonium and every rise and fall in his voice, he painted a canvas of emotions, from delicate nostalgia to soaring pride. His rendition wasn’t about technical mastery alone; it was about storytelling through sound.

The Ensemble - A Symphony of Talents

This performance was elevated by a team of exceptional musicians:
🎸 Ameya Paranjape – Guitar
🎸 Shashi Bhushan – Bass
🥁 Moinuddin Mohsin Farooqui – Drums
🪘 Surjeet Singh – Tabla
🎻 Farhaan Khan – Sarangi
🎤 Backing Vocals – Samiksha Gawai, Hriday Kashyap, Deeksha Verma
🎹 Keys & Arrangement – Rusheel Chalse
🎚 Sound Engineer – Prasad Maha
Together, they didn’t just accompany Snehdeep; they engaged in a musical dialogue, each instrument adding depth and texture to the emotional journey of Raag Des.

A Moment to Remember

As the final notes faded into silence, the audience remained still for a moment before erupting into applause. It wasn’t just appreciation, it was a shared acknowledgment that something profound had transpired.
Performances like this remind us why live music matters. It’s not just about hearing a song; it’s about feeling it, living it, and carrying it with you long after the stage lights dim.
For those who missed it, the recording of Snehdeep Singh Kalsi’s Raag Des at NMACC is more than worth seeking out, it’s a testament to how music can honor tradition while still feeling fresh and alive.