This World Music Day, we asked some of India’s most loved and diverse voices just one question: “What does music mean to you?” And what we received were not just answers — but reflections, memories, and emotions that show how music truly shapes lives.
From award-winning legends to rising stars, B Praak, Jubin Nautiyal, Shilpa Rao, Jonita Gandhi, Stebin Ben, Shalmali Kholgade, and Kushagra share their stories from the heart.
B Praak
“Music is a lifeline to me, and it’s more than just sound. My feelings, my honesty, and my journey are all reflected in every song I compose or sing. In both my best and worst times, music has been there for me. I know no other way to genuinely convey what’s in my heart but through it. On World Music Day, I just feel thankful that I get to live and breathe this gift every single day.”
Jubin Nautiyal
“I think of music as my oxygen. In times of chaos it brings me calm, and when I feel weak, it gives me power. My joy is the same whether I’m performing live or just sitting in the hills by myself with my guitar. I can connect with someone through music and express myself without using words. It’s magic – and I live in it.”
Shilpa Rao
“Music has always been my safe space. It’s where I go to find clarity, where I go to feel understood. I’ve grown as a person because of the music I’ve experienced, the people I’ve worked with, and the moments I’ve lived through a song. I feel extremely fortunate to be able to experience music every day because it not only tells stories but also saves memories.”
Jonita Gandhi
“Music means everything to me – it’s the bridge between who I was and who I’m becoming. It allows me to carry forward traditions while also experimenting with fresh sounds. Every note I sing is a reflection of where I’ve been and where I want to go. As an artist, there’s nothing more beautiful than seeing your music touch someone’s soul.”
Stebin Ben
“For me, music is love in its purest form. It’s in the way people remember their first dance, a heartbreak, a celebration – all through a song. I feel truly blessed that my voice becomes part of someone’s personal story. Music allows me to connect deeply with emotions, and on World Music Day, I’m just grateful that I get to give love back through every melody.”
Shalmali Kholgade
“Music has always been the boldest part of me. It’s the one thing that encourages me to be fearless, experimental, and authentic. I’ve found happiness, rebellion, and reflection in my songs. It’s a journey of constant evolution – and World Music Day is a perfect time to pause, reflect, and thank music for being the best friend I’ever had.”
Kushagra
“As a young artist in the music world, everything still feels like a dream. But one thing I know for sure — music grounds me. It helps me express what I can’t put into words. It’s emotional, powerful, and so personal. I hope I continue to grow with it, learn from it, and make people feel something real through my voice.”
This World Music Day, these voices remind us that beyond awards and applause, music is about emotion, connection, and truth.
One question — seven powerful answers. And one message that echoes through them all: music is life.
