Ever since I was young, I’ve been meaning to learn Kathak. However, I never got the opportunity to do so even I grew up amid performing arts. I mostly learnt Carnatic music, and ICPAS was an opportunity for me to finally learn something I have been keen on for years. Joining ICPAS was far more valuable than I thought it would be. I have not only found an entire community of like-minded, culturally rooted individuals who I call my family as an International student away from home, but also a re-discovered identity as someone deeply passionate about performing arts. The performances and the classes and having something to anchor me when I need familiarity to turn to.

I mainly contribute to ICPAS through Raaga. I first started learning Carnatic Music when I was 8 years old back in Singapore, and have been learning it for the past 15 years. Carnatic Music has held a special place in my heart as it reminds me of home, warmth and is my comfort. As Raaga head in ICPAS, I managed to bring together musicians to host Raaga’s first concert in November 2025, and continue to keep the team together to organize music jamming sessions. My aim is to simply share my love for Carnatic music and create a safe platform for whoever has lost touch with it through ICPAS. Music goes beyond performance—and ICPAS to me is that opportunity to see Carnatic Music in its raw form, beyond performance, achievement and a way to prove “one’s worth”. Additionally, I also work with the President to overlook overall execution, event planning and publicity. It warms my heart that I get to be such a vital part of such a nice initiative so far away from home, and aspire to contribute significantly to the classical arts performing landscape in Bristol.