Raagaverse x Bollywood

Raagaverse x Bollywood is a vibrant reimagining of classic Indian cinema through a contemporary jazz lens. Led by vocalist and arranger Shruti Ramani, this special performance revisits beloved songs from Indian film music, transforming them into rich, exploratory jazz arrangements that honor their melodic depth while opening new sonic possibilities. Most arrangements are by Ramani, with additional contributions by pianist Noah Franche-Nolan.

Joining them are Raagaverse members Trent Otter on drums and James Meger on bass, alongside guest trumpeter Feven Kidane and vocalist Smrithi Rajasekar, whose distinctive voices bring added color and energy to the ensemble.

This performance expands beyond music into a fully immersive artistic experience. Visual artist Michelle La will create live projections throughout the show, while dancer Sasha Ashvini premieres new choreography created especially for this collaboration.

Raagaverse x Bollywood promises an evening of reinvention and celebration, where iconic melodies of Indian cinema are reimagined in a jazz context.

2025 Juno Nominee for Best Jazz Album of the Year (Group), Raagaverse, led by vocalist Shruti Ramani, is a creative Indo-Jazz fusion band that pays homage to the two deeply historical and culturally-significant genres: classical Hindustani music and Jazz. Shruti brings her expertise in Hindustani music together with the quartet’s appreciation, knowledge, affinity and experience of the Jazz and other musical artforms. Raagaverse retains the authenticity of both traditions, melding them seamlessly into one cohesive sound that is both dynamic and explosive with immense respect, depth and beauty.

Shruti’s musical fluency originates from her rigorous Hindustani training and degree under Dr. Ritu Johri in Mumbai, India, and her studies leading to a degree in Jazz from Capilano University. Her original compositions use melodies ornamented with traditional Hindustani nuances, with underlying modern Jazz harmonies and rhythms.