🎙️ We Spoke With Kolkata’s Rising Indie Singer – Here’s What He Said

In a city where heritage echoes through every street corner, a new wave of sound is slowly making its way into the hearts of music lovers. We caught up with Rudra Sen, one of Kolkata’s rising indie voices, whose music is a refreshing mix of raw emotion, Bengali folk, and urban storytelling.

In a candid conversation, Rudra opened up about his journey, creative process, and what it means to be an indie artist in today’s Kolkata.

🎧 “Kolkata doesn’t rush — and neither does my music.”

“I grew up in a para where evenings were filled with Rabindra Sangeet and Kishore Kumar. But I also sneaked in Coldplay and Lucky Ali when no one was watching. My music blends those worlds.”

Rudra’s sound is mellow yet soulful, often using acoustic guitar and lo-fi beats layered with deeply personal lyrics — mostly in Bengali.

📝 On Writing Lyrics that Speak to the City

“The city breathes through my songs. I write about empty buses in rain, stolen glances on metro stations, and heartbreaks under yellow street lights.”

His hit single “Shobuj Hawa” (Green Wind) went viral among Gen Z listeners for its simple yet powerful imagery of love and longing in the city.

🎶 On Folk Influence

“Baul and Bhatiyali have rhythm in their soul — they’re not just melodies, they’re philosophies. I try to honour that in my work.”

Rudra often uses traditional instruments like the ektara and dotara, but pairs them with ambient background textures that create a soothing, meditative vibe.

🌍 On the Indie Scene in Kolkata

“We’re small, but strong. You’ll find artists performing at cafés, releasing EPs from bedrooms, and collaborating through DMs. Kolkata’s indie scene is real and emotional — not factory-made.”

Rudra believes the internet has helped level the field: “You no longer need a label — just good music and honesty.”

📀 What’s Next?

“I’m working on an EP titled ‘Bristi’r Moto’ — it’s a love letter to Kolkata’s monsoon, to healing, and to solitude.”

❤️ Final Words to Young Musicians

“Don’t fake it. Sing what hurts, what heals, and what’s real to you. That’s the only way people will truly listen.”