I hope to change the way people listen to 'bhajans': Shivali Bhammer

She’s says she always been devotional by nature and has decided to express that notion by singing.

That effort which results in a modern bhajan album, London-based Shivali Bhammer might have you getting into spiritual mode whether you party or are running at the gym. “My album is like that,” she explains, “It’s evoking the Lord in every action of yours.”

The album — The Bhajan Project — is not just a collection of mantras. It’s got a blend of beats and sounds from the genres of R&B, soul, rock and pop with a generous dose of the acoustic guitar too.

“If we have such great Bollywood and Western music, why not offer the same production to the Lord? If I can get someone who doesn’t listen or care for bhajans to appreciate the sound, then I feel I have achieved something. It is about bringing Him to those who may feel He is distant. It is not just about a harmonium and a voice with words we don’t relate to but it is for everybody,” explains the 23-year-old artiste.

Having been brought up in London and attended the University of Nottingham where she read Economics and Philosophy, isn’t that quite different from her current calling?

“Spirituality has always interested me. I may dabble in financial markets again so that I can save for a second album, but this bhajan boat has just taken float and we have a long way to sail,” adds Shivali.

So, is there a hope that her new album will have an influence on Indians in London today? And how big is the Asian and Indian sound there? “Very big!” she claims.

“London has a big Asian network and it really embraces people with a different sound. It is receptive of talented young artists — we see them sprouting everyday! I look forward to unleash The Bhajan Project on the market there. Also, Asians tend to be very religious from where I am and a modern bhajan album is something the youngsters of UK have been waiting for.”