18
May 2025
12:00 AM to 12:00 AM
Avid Learning’s Museum Lens: Curating Collaborations, Conversations, and Cultural Futures
Online
Like the ancient river that lends them their name, The Tapi Project does not simply flow—it carves its path. Born in Surat and shaped by journeys across continents, the band’s acoustics are both deeply rooted and ever-changing. Their music is not confined by genre but carries the pulse of folk, jazz, rock, and the unpredictability of the road.
Led by Yogendra Saniyawala (Acoustic Guitar / Greek Bouzouki / Voice), Swati Minaxi (Voice), Gaurav Kapadia (Drums / Voice), and Biju Nambiar (Keyboard / Bass / Voice), the quartet’s music speaks of rivers and roots, of lost values and longing, of modern India seen through a traveler’s eyes. What makes The Tapi Project singular is neither calculated studio precision nor market-tested formulae. Their sound emerged organically, devoid of any practiced effort to create “a sound'—a rare authenticity in today's manufactured music landscape. This is why they have resonated across over 30 countries and most recently at the Celtic Connections in Glasgow, Scotland, becoming the first indie Indian band to be invited.
Indie Music in India - The Future
Indie music in India is experiencing a remarkable surge, driven by independent artists and bands capturing the hearts of music enthusiasts nationwide. This genre uniquely blends traditional elements with contemporary sounds, creating a dynamic musical experience that reflects India's rich and varied cultural heritage. Young artists are at the forefront of this movement, using their creativity to experiment with sound, lyrics, and themes that resonate with diverse audiences. The rise of digital platforms has significantly contributed to this growth, allowing diverse genres such as folk, acoustic, electronic, and hip-hop to flourish. These platforms not only amplify the voices of indie musicians but also celebrate cultural diversity and artistic freedom. The genre nurtures an environment where young artists can freely express themselves while connecting deeply with their roots and contemporary influences. This blend of tradition and innovation makes indie music vital to India's evolving cultural narrative. However, despite this momentum, artists and industry stakeholders face numerous challenges like monetisation, exposure, promotion, and lack of infrastructure support that hinder the sustainable growth of the indie music movement.
Highlights from Tapi Project's Discography
The Tapi Project, a popular band hailing from Surat, has garnered attention for its unique sound and compelling performances. The band's name is inspired by their debut self-titled album, which features nine captivating tracks, including the standout song "Paigam" and the evocative "Suburban Zindagi." Since their formation, the Tapi Project has been actively performing at various venues and festivals. Notably, they have showcased their talent across Europe and participated in prestigious events such as the Mahindra Kabira Festival in Varanasi. Their live performance of "Mehsoos" has become a fan favourite, resonating deeply with audiences. In addition to their earlier performances, the Tapi Project has also staged at prominent events like the Jaipur Music Stage during the Jaipur Literature Festival. It also performed at the Sacred Spirit Festival in Jodhpur in February 2024. This visibility highlights their artistic journey and reflects their growing influence within India's vibrant music scene.
Folk Fusion - Reflection of Today’s Dynamic and Multicultural Music World
Music in India has undergone a remarkable transformation over the years, evolving from traditional folk forms to a vibrant fusion of genres that resonates with contemporary audiences. This continuous metamorphosis reflects the dynamic cultural landscape of India, where ancient traditions meet modern influences. The fusion of folk and new-age music has gained significant momentum, offering fresh perspectives on cultural traditions while connecting with today’s Indian audience.
Folk fusion artists and bands such as Raghu Dixit, Kutle Khan, Indian Ocean, Swarathma, Advaita, Susheela Raman, and Papon are at the forefront of this movement. They skillfully blend the storytelling elements inherent in folk songs with contemporary musical genres like hip-hop, electronic music, and jazz. This melding not only preserves the rich tapestry of Indian culture but also introduces innovative sounds that appeal to younger generations. The result is a unique musical experience celebrating diversity while maintaining deep roots in tradition. As these artists continue to experiment and collaborate across genres, they invite listeners on a journey through India's rich musical heritage—one that is continuously evolving yet firmly grounded in its origins.
