We had the good fortune of connecting with Diship Garg and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Diship, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
For me, pursuing an artistic career wasn’t a choice—it was a calling.

I started singing at the age of seven, and by the time I was twelve, I was recognized as India’s Youngest Bhajan Singer by the India Book of Records. From those early days, music wasn’t just something I enjoyed—it was something I felt deeply connected to, almost as if it chose me.

As I grew older, I realized that music gave me something no other path could: purpose, peace, and the ability to touch people’s lives in meaningful ways. Even though I was academically strong and could have taken a more conventional path, I kept returning to the same truth—nothing else made me feel more alive.

Pursuing a creative career hasn’t been easy. There were times when I questioned it, especially when I saw friends earning more, settling down faster, and living lives that seemed more stable. But I also knew that no amount of money or status could replace the fulfillment I felt when I created something from the soul. That clarity is what kept me going.

Over the years, I’ve expanded my work beyond performance—composing, producing, managing artists, even writing a book on the power of music. But at the core, it’s all rooted in the same desire: to use creativity as a force for healing, connection, and cultural exchange.

So, I didn’t pursue an artistic career just to “make it” in the industry—I pursued it because it’s the most honest expression of who I am.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
At its core, my art is about transformation—turning emotion into sound, struggle into expression, and silence into healing.

My work blends Indian classical heritage with contemporary styles like ambient, electronic, soul, and devotional music. I don’t just create for entertainment—I create to move people. I believe sound has the power to heal, reset, and realign our energies. That’s the heart of my art, and that’s what sets me apart. I’m not just a singer or composer—I’m a storyteller, a sound alchemist, and a bridge between cultures.

One of the projects I’m most proud of is my single Rooh. It’s a deeply personal composition that captures the conflict between the mind and the soul—something every artist, and every human being, experiences. I created Rooh during a time of intense self-reflection, when I was questioning everything: my path, my purpose, my future. But music, once again, became my compass. That process of turning emotional vulnerability into something beautiful and universal reminded me why I’ve never strayed from this path.

My journey, however, was never easy. Starting as a devotional singer at age 7 and gaining national recognition by 12 as India’s Youngest Bhajan Singer might sound glamorous, but it came with its share of challenges. Financial instability, constant comparisons to others, and the emotional toll of pursuing an unconventional career often tested my resolve. I’ve had moments where I watched my peers climb faster, earn more, and live lives that seemed more secure. But my soul kept calling me back to the sound—and I listened.

What helped me navigate this path was not only resilience but also a desire to deeply understand music from every angle. That’s why I pursued multiple master’s degrees, including one in Music Business (Music Technology) from NYU, and immersed myself in roles that expanded beyond performance—into artist management, content strategy, audio engineering, and immersive media research. I worked with global teams at AEG Presents–TMWRK Management and Adhyâropa Records, where I managed over 50 artists and shaped strategies for digital growth and storytelling.

Beyond music production, one of my most meaningful contributions has been through my book Music – The Mirror of the Soul. This work is a philosophical and emotional exploration of music’s impact on human consciousness, relationships, memory, and spirituality. It’s my way of articulating how sound is not just heard, but felt—how it shapes identity, triggers healing, and mirrors the soul’s journey. Writing this book gave me space to reflect on my own path and offer something timeless to others who find solace in sound.

Looking ahead, I’m deeply excited about my upcoming project: a transformative wellness sanctuary in New Delhi. This space will merge ancient wisdom with modern sensory science—offering sound baths on floating beds, signature aromatherapy, sacred lighting, and immersive relaxation experiences. It’s the physical embodiment of what I’ve stood for all along: that music and art aren’t just for consumption—they’re tools for inner alchemy.

If there’s one thing I want the world to know, it’s this: I’ve never created to impress. I create to connect. Everything I do—my performances, my writing, my production, my future wellness space—is rooted in the desire to help people feel seen, understood, and at peace. My story is not one of overnight success—it’s one of purpose, perseverance, and the unwavering belief that sound can truly change lives.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting, I’d want to give them more than just a tour—I’d want them to feel the spirit of the city, the energy, the artistry, and the quiet pockets of peace. Here’s how we’d spend an unforgettable week together:

Day 1 – A Soft Landing

We’d start gently—with a grounding brunch at Buvette in the West Village. Their croque madame and lavender latte just hit different when you’re easing into NYC’s rhythm. After that, we’d walk through Washington Square Park, listen to live jazz by the fountain, and people-watch—because sometimes the city itself is the performance.

Evening? Dinner at The Bombay Bread Bar or Adda Indian Canteen for some unapologetically bold Indian food. I’d want my friend to taste flavors that remind me of home, but with NYC flair.

Day 2 – Art & Soul

Morning at The Met Cloisters—a peaceful, lesser-known gem. It’s art and serenity rolled into one. We’d follow it with a sound bath or breathwork session at The Woom Center in SoHo—just to align our energies and leave the digital clutter behind.

Nighttime? Jazz at Smalls in the Village. The intimacy, the rawness—music there feels like a spiritual experience.

Day 3 – Brooklyn Vibes

We’d head to Williamsburg and grab coffee at Devoción (those plants, that light!). Then some crate-digging at Rough Trade or Academy Records because music discovery is still sacred.

Dinner would be at Miss Ada, one of my all-time favorites—Middle Eastern food in a cozy backyard setting. We’d wrap the night at The Brooklyn Mirage, only if there’s an artist playing that aligns with our vibe. If not, just a long walk by the East River State Park to see Manhattan sparkle across the water.

Day 4 – Spiritual Recharge

This day’s for the soul. Morning meditation at Integral Yoga Institute or a visit to Chinatown’s Mahayana Temple. I’d take them to Divya’s Kitchen afterward—clean, Ayurvedic food that feels like a warm hug.

In the evening, a rooftop sunset moment—maybe Harriet’s Rooftop at 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge. Golden hour over the skyline with good conversation? That’s therapy.

Day 5 – Creative Fuel

We’d visit The Museum of the Moving Image in Astoria (it’s underrated and so inspiring for a visual thinker like me). Then we’d swing by MoMA PS1 or catch an experimental show or indie screening.

Dinner? Somewhere low-key but unforgettable—maybe Lilia in Brooklyn or Dhamaka on the Lower East Side. Conversations about life, passion, art, and what’s next.

Day 6 – A Day of Play

This is our ‘no rules’ day. Brunch at Jack’s Wife Freda, long walk on the High Line, maybe spontaneous dancing at House of Yes or a creative workshop at The Shed. I’d want us to laugh, let loose, and just be.

Late-night would be dessert at Spot Dessert Bar or a slice from Joe’s Pizza at 2 a.m.. Because real New York happens after midnight.

Day 7 – Full Circle

We’d spend the final day in reflection—maybe in Central Park or Prospect Park, just talking, journaling, making voice memos, or sitting with music. A stop at The Strand Bookstore to pick out something meaningful for each other—a ritual I always love.

For our last dinner, something intimate—maybe a home-cooked Indian meal (by me!) with Raag Bhairavi or a lo-fi playlist in the background. I’d want them to leave not just with photos, but with clarity, peace, and a little bit of magic tucked into their suitcase.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
If there’s one thing I know for sure, it’s that no dream is built alone. Whatever I’ve achieved in life is deeply rooted in the love, sacrifice, and belief of a few remarkable people—starting with my family.

My father has been my pillar of strength since day one. He recognized my musical spark before the world did and devoted himself completely to nurturing it. From taking me to rehearsals to guiding my early performances, he believed in me when the path was uncertain. My mother has been my soul’s comforter—her prayers, resilience, and quiet emotional support have been the spiritual foundation of my journey. She never let me forget that the purpose behind my music was bigger than success—it was healing, expression, and service.

My elder sister has been my fiercest supporter and best friend. Whether helping me apply to universities abroad, editing my work, or just being there when I felt low, she has stood beside me through every challenge and celebrated every win as if it were her own.

I also owe a great deal to the mentors who helped shape me along the way. My kindergarten teacher, Ms. Preeti, was the first person outside my family to recognize my voice as something special—she sowed the earliest seeds of encouragement. Bhajan Samrat Anup Jalota and Ravindra Jain, both legends in their own right, guided me during my formative years as a devotional artist. Their mentorship instilled in me both musical discipline and humility.

There were times when the world ridiculed my choices, when people questioned why I was pursuing music while others were chasing stable careers. But these people—my family and mentors—stood firm in their support. They saw the vision long before it was visible to others. And now, when people come forward to say “I know him—he worked hard,” I know the real credit goes to the ones who never left my side when I was still becoming that person.

So, this shoutout is for them—for their selflessness, their wisdom, and their unconditional love. Without them, none of this would have been possible.

Website: https://www.dishipgarg.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dishipgarg/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dishipgarg/

Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0XWFEByaZWsij8VaxK4FRF?si=_mNYDT7_Qmmaf8gK6z0Osw

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