Music is a universal language, and few people personify this truth like Kris Chetan Ramlu, a New Zealand-based musician of Fijian-Indian descent. A talented multi-instrumentalist, singer, and music producer, Chetan has woven his unique cultural heritage into a diverse and eclectic musical journey that transcends borders. His journey, marked by dedication, innovation, and collaboration, is a testament to the unifying power of music.
Early Life of Kris Chetan Ramlu: A Musical Journey Begins
Kris Chetan Ramlu was born and raised in New Zealand, growing up in a family deeply connected to their Fijian-Indian heritage. From a young age, Kris Chetan Ramlu was immersed in the rich traditions of Indian classical music. At just 10 years old, Kris Chetan Ramlu was introduced to the tabla, an Indian percussion instrument that would become his gateway into the world of music.
Under the guidance of his father and later his esteemed teacher, Ustaad Muhammad Sardar Khan of Hyderabad, Chetan honed his skills on the tabla, mastering its complex rhythms. By the age of 12, he was performing in concerts, a young prodigy already making his mark. Alongside tabla, Kris Chetan Ramlu also pursued Hindustani classical vocal training with ghazal maestro Pandit Vithal Rao, further solidifying his deep connection to Indian classical traditions.
But Kris Chetan Ramlu’s passion for music didn’t stop there. Even as he immersed himself in traditional Indian music, he found himself drawn to Western music. His curiosity for the piano, drums, and vocals blossomed as he explored new genres and expanded his musical horizons. His time at St. Patrick’s College, Wellington, provided him with the perfect platform to experiment, as he actively participated in various school bands like Con Anima and the Jazz Band, blending genres and learning new instruments.
Balancing Education and Passion
Chetan’s love for music continued alongside his academic pursuits. He enrolled at Victoria University of Wellington, where he studied Law and Commerce, a path that showcased his drive to succeed in multiple arenas. Despite the demanding nature of his studies, he never lost sight of his musical journey. His university years were spent juggling cricket, where he captained the Victoria University Senior Reserve team and won the Tyler McKnight Cup, and music, where he diligently refined his craft.
A Multi-Instrumentalist’s Rise: Career Highlights
Chetan’s versatility as a musician is truly astounding. While his early career focused heavily on the tabla, his evolution into a multi-instrumentalist saw him mastering several other instruments and genres. In 2002, he joined the Indo-Fusion band Moksha (later renamed Doosra), where he became known for his dynamic tabla performances. This period was just the beginning of his growing presence in New Zealand’s fusion music scene.
By 2007, Chetan’s collaboration with singer-songwriter Raashi Malik opened up new avenues in his musical career. Known for her role in the Wellington super-dub band Rhombus, Malik’s collaboration with Chetan allowed him to bridge his Indian classical roots with the growing electronic and fusion music movement.
In 2016, Kris Chetan Ramlu embarked on an exciting new chapter when he joined Tahir Qawwal and Party, immersing himself in the mystical world of Qawwali. His time with this renowned group allowed him to delve deeper into Sufi devotional music, further enriching his understanding of Eastern music traditions. This experience also highlighted Chetan’s capacity to seamlessly blend his diverse influences into cohesive and powerful musical performances.
Collaborations: Bridging Cultures Through Music
Chetan’s most inspiring quality is his ability to bring different musical worlds together. His collaborations extend far beyond genres and cultures, making him a true global artist. In recent years, his work with musicians such as Justin ‘Firefly’ Clarke, Tristan Carter, and Thomas Friggens in the tribute band ‘Shades of Shakti’ has demonstrated his profound respect for fusion music.
This group pays homage to the legendary band Shakti, which originally brought Indian classical music to the global stage. Their performance at the NZ Festival of the Arts was a resounding success, receiving a standing ovation and leaving an indelible mark on the audience just before the world faced the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
During the pandemic, Chetan turned adversity into opportunity, launching the ‘Lockdown Gharana’ project, an innovative initiative aimed at bringing musicians together virtually. Through the power of social media, he connected with artists from around the world, fostering a sense of unity through music during one of the most isolating times in recent history. His collaborations with artists like Papon, Sajjad Ali, Vaishali Samant, and Rhian Sheehan exemplified his role as a cultural ambassador, effortlessly fusing Eastern and Western sounds.
A Full Circle Moment: Reuniting with a Childhood Hero
In 2024, Kris Chetan Ramlu experienced a defining moment in his career when he reunited with Tahir Qawwal, this time as a vocalist and harmonium player for the band Fanna-Fi-Allah. Their United States, Canada, and Europe tours brought Chetan’s journey to an emotional full circle, especially when he performed alongside his childhood hero, Ustad Dildar Hussain, the tabla player for Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan.
Their first performance together at Birmingham Town Hall was a dream realized for Kris Chetan Ramlu, a moment of personal triumph and professional validation.
Continuing to Inspire: The Legacy of Kris ‘Chetan’ Ramlu
Chetan’s musical journey is far from over. His recent collaborations, including a feature on Aaradhna’s 2023 single “She,” highlight his ever-growing influence in the music industry. His ability to blend traditional Indian music with contemporary Western sounds ensures that his music remains relevant, inspiring, and accessible to audiences across generations.
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