Four emerging Indie artistes enthral audiences at a SoBo gig

Despite it being the middle of the week (July 23), Mumbaikars braved relentless showers to attend an Indie music show. The energy was electric, the voices raw and powerful, and the Indie music fans’ community was stronger than ever at this gig held in SoBo. Four talented Indie artistes including The Kabir, Ashu Shukla, Pulkit Jain and Prateeksha Srivastava delivered an applaud-worthy performance that celebrated the city’s thriving independent music culture. This live event was a first-of-its-kind community showcase and was conceived as a stage for stories that often unfold behind closed doors — the offstage grind, the hustle, and the emotional journeys of indie artists who are shaping the future of music in India. “This is one of the first events of its kind. It’s a platform and a community where we celebrate art, music, and culture, providing a space for artists to showcase raw and real music,” said Dhaval Kothari, one of the organisers. With around 200-300 people in attendance, the evening began with a performance by The Kabir whose soulful set left the audience awestruck. He sang Ishq mera hai - Do Dil - Becheniyan - Naa Dooja Koi and others.

"This was the first time I performed my original songs live. I had thought about doing it before, but it never quite came together, until now. This feels like the beginning of something special. The whole experience felt so warm and intimate, almost like performing for a family,” said The Kabir. Pulkit Jain was next and added a refreshing dose of humour, warmth, and musical dexterity to the night with performances of “Kinare Pe”, “Koi Na Koi”, and the satirical hit “Pyaare”.

Armed with his guitar and piano, Pulkit reminded the crowd that indie music can be both reflective and playful — and still hit home. "I’m just as thrilled now, as I was before the show. The energy was incredible, and the audience was full of amazing people.

I saw so many familiar faces—friends, acquaintances, listeners, and fans—which made it even more special. I also truly enjoyed listening to the sets by Ashu, Prateeksha, and The Kabir, they were fantastic,” said Pulkit. Sharing the stage was Ashu Shukla, whose melodies like “Phir Se Shuru” and “Har Ek Pal” had fans singing along, phones lit, and emotions high. "It was such an amazing experience, so many people joined in to sing with me, and I absolutely loved performing. The line-up was beautiful: Pulkit Jain, Prateeksha Srivastava, The Kabir, and me. It was actually my first time performing as part of a line-up, and I truly enjoyed every moment of it.

I’d love to do more performances like this again soon,” said Ashu. The next performer, Prateeksha Srivastava, showcased a soul-stirring set that left the audience mesmerized. Her recent Bollywood release “Mila Tujhe” and “Holi Aayi Re” with Vishal Mishra struck a chord with listeners and earned appreciation. She took the crowd on a journey from personal, intimate lyrics to soaring anthems like “Birha” and “Jiya Kaanch ka”.

“This show felt like a homecoming. It was a fantastic set and I feel incredible.

It was my first time performing at this venue, and honestly, I couldn’t have asked for a better experience. The turnout was amazing, the energy was great, and the arrangements were flawless. Everything ran so smoothly—it didn’t even feel like work, it felt like a vacation. This will always hold a special place in my heart because firsts are always unforgettable."