Shivani has been a student of Hindustani classical vocals from the age of 4, learning from several gurus in India, and has specialised in different gharanas of classical music, with the most extensive experience in the Gwalior gharana. In the tradition of Indian classical music, spirituality and music are deeply woven together. Drawing this into her present work and upcoming releases, Shivani’s sonic identity borrows heavily from this shared language of spirit and sound.
In London Shivani has been a Hindustani classical vocalist in residence at Asian Arts Agency, Dat Disku and Daytimers UK and worked with artists like Bombay Mami, showcasing her expertise in classical ragas and semiclassical lyric and melody writing. She has collaborated with bands like Jawari, Sound Anthropology and MTV Trio, and showcased her contemporary Hindustani classical style across venues like SOAS University, Indian High Commission and internationallu across Europe and India. Shortlisted and Highly Commended by BBC Radio 3 and the Tune into Nature Prize in 2026, her work has aired across major BBC platforms. Shivani has been longlisted by Cove Park Residency and her singles, You’re Not Coming, and The Call I Never Made intertwine Hindustani classical improvisation with Western pop, earning acclaim from platforms like Notion, Earmilk, DIY Magazine, The Pit and BBC Introducing Asian Network. Through her upcoming releases, Shivani aims to merge her Indian musical roots with the vibrant tones of Western indie pop, creating a fresh, contemporary Indian sound for global audiences.
Shivani’s Interview for BBC Introducing Artist of the Week with show host Jasmine Thakkar covers an in-depth discussion about the making of her debut single, the inspiration behind it, anecdotes from the making, and next steps in Shivani’s musical journey.
An excerpt from a live performance in raga Yaman vilambit set to ek taal accompanied by the bass