Four of South Asia’s Brightest Stars Share How Their Heritage Shapes Their Lives and Music

For the Record spoke with each of the artists to understand what their culture and heritage mean to them, and what makes South Asian Heritage Month special to them. 

Darshan Raval 

Darshan is a singer, songwriter, and composer from Ahmedabad, India, who catapulted to stardom after performing in a singing competition on Indian TV. Since then he’s gone on to amass nearly 19 million monthly Spotify listeners worldwide and has generated over 1 billion total Spotify streams thanks to singles like “Asal Mein” and “Ek Tarfa,” as well as his 2023 album, Dard.

Who is your favorite Indian legend?

Kishore Kumar and Sonu Nigam, along with Pritam, who is a music director I really enjoy working with.

What does South Asian Heritage Month mean to you? 

As an Indian artist, sharing this sound globally fills me with pride. Spotify’s South Asian Heritage Month is a fantastic platform to deepen my connection with fans and celebrate our heritage, encouraging global appreciation for South Asian music.

How has your South Asian heritage influenced your music?

Growing up in India, I experienced a vibrant mix of musical genres, from classical and folk to Bollywood and indie. And my heritage is the cornerstone of my music, influencing everything from the traditional Indian melodies and rhythms I incorporate to the storytelling that defines my songs. This has given my music a unique sound that resonates with my fans not just in India but lovers of this sound globally.

What message do you want to convey to people as a South Asian Heritage Month ambassador? 

My aim is to inspire others to share their roots and cultural stories through creative expressions, just as I have. I’ve always found inspiration in my heritage and enjoyed the freedom to modernize it and make it my own. As a South Asian Heritage Month ambassador, I’m thrilled to be part of this cultural celebration.

Kanchana Anuradhi

Kanchana is a Sri Lankan singer, songwriter, and composer whose talent has earned her national recognition. After rising to fame with her 2020 single “Udurawee,” Kanchana’s popularity continues to grow as she releases hits like “Naden” and “Aaley Mal.”

Who is your favorite Sri Lankan legend?

My legendary Sri Lankan artist is W. D. Amaradeva. His contribution to music is remarkable and it inspires me. 

What does South Asian Heritage Month mean to you?

For me, I think it’s time to celebrate our diverse cultures, histories, and traditions in South Asian countries, and I also think this will inspire future generations to take pride in their roots. 

How has your South Asian heritage influenced your music?

My heritage deeply influences my music with traditional rhythms, melodies, and storytelling. It helps me to create unique sounds for a global audience.

What message do you want to convey to people as a South Asian Heritage Month ambassador?

As an ambassador, I want to share the message of unity and diversity. Let’s celebrate our rich heritage and make the world better together.

Adnan Dhool

Adnan is a Pakistani singer, songwriter, and composer. His soulful voice and emotive performances have earned him a devoted fan base, both at home and in neighboring India. Along with his solo releases, which include “Chalo Choro” and “Pardes Katenda,” Adnan contributed the song “Ho Ja Mast Malang Tu” to the Malang soundtrack. 

Who are your favorite Pakistani legends?

My favorite legendary Pakistani artists are Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan and the living legend Atif Aslam.

What does South Asian Heritage Month mean to you?

I think it’s a very special month for South Asians to celebrate our music including Punjabi and Saraiki music. There is nothing more beautiful than being proud of your own culture.

How has your South Asian heritage influenced your music?

My whole career is based on my heritage. With songs of mine like “Bandeya,” their essence lies in Sufism. And my latest tracks, “Pardes Katenda” and “Maar Udari (Pardes 2.0),” are inspired by my own culture and language.

What message do you want to convey to people as a South Asian Heritage Month ambassador?

Whatever your culture is, whatever your language is, and whatever your lifestyle is, you need to be proud of it completely and fearlessly. 

Pritom Hasan

Pritom is a singer from Bangladesh who is affectionately known as the Jadukor, or magician, of the industry. After breaking through with his 2016 single “Local Bus,” Pritom has gone on to release hits including “Girlfriend er Biya” and “Maloma.”

Who are your favorite Bangladeshi legends?

There are two legendary Bangladeshi artists I love listening to: One of them is Syed Abdul Hadi, and another one is Runa Laila. I have been listening to their songs since childhood as my father was also a fan. 

What does South Asian Heritage Month mean to you?

South Asian Heritage Month is very special to me because it gives myself and other Bangladeshi artists the opportunity to showcase our culture to the world.

How has your South Asian heritage influenced your music?

The influence of my culture comes through in the Bangladeshi instruments that are featured in my songs, like the ektara, dotara, harmonium, mondira, and dhol. It gives my music a very unique sonic identity.

From the start of my career I have always tried to promote Bangladeshi folk songs, and I have tried to revive modern folk and fusion folk with my songwriting so that people around the world can take notice.

What message do you want to convey to people as a South Asian Heritage Month ambassador?

It’s exciting to see the world become more interested in Bangladeshi culture and non-Bengali music fans listen to Bengali songs.  

I also think people should also try our food if they haven’t already. It’s one of the best cuisines in the world, I can promise you that.

Discover the freshest sounds coming out of South Asia with our playlist Desi Hits.