India’s music scene has undergone a seismic shift over the last decade. No longer limited to Bollywood or classical genres, the rise of indie music in India has opened doors for artists with unique voices, stories, and sounds. And leading this wave are independent icons like Prateek Kuhad, Divine, and others who’ve not only carved their own paths but also redefined what it means to be an Indian musician.
The Prateek Kuhad Story: Soulful and Simple
The Prateek Kuhad story is one of quiet brilliance. With a blend of English and Hindi lyrics, his music cuts deep into emotion with acoustic simplicity and poetic vulnerability. Known for his global hit cold/mess (even featured in Barack Obama’s playlist), Prateek is proof that minimalism and honesty can resonate worldwide. His rise in the indie music India scene shows how strong songwriting and staying true to your sound can create an international audience without major-label backing.
Divine: From the Streets to the Stars
Divine, the face of hip-hop in India, is a revolutionary figure. Hailing from Mumbai’s streets, the Divine rapper India journey started with gritty, real-life storytelling. His breakout track Mere Gully Mein became an anthem and laid the foundation for the Bollywood hit Gully Boy. Divine’s rise has empowered an entire generation of underground rappers and proved that raw talent, when combined with authenticity, can shake the industry.
Ritviz: Where Tradition Meets Electronic
Blending classical Indian vocals with modern electronic beats, Ritviz is another indie gamechanger. His music, like Udd Gaye and Liggi, is genre-defying, fun, and deeply rooted in Indian culture. He’s inspired many young artists to experiment with fusion and to trust their creative instincts—no matter how unconventional they seem.
Anuv Jain: The Voice of Every Millennial Heart
Soft, introspective, and beautifully relatable—Anuv Jain has become the go-to voice for young listeners dealing with love, identity, and everything in between. His tracks like Baarishein and Alag Aasmaan have shown that simple production paired with honest lyrics can create magic.
Diljit Dosanjh: The Global Desi Phenomenon
One cannot talk about modern Indian icons without mentioning Diljit Dosanjh. From his energetic Punjabi bangers to his soothing romantic tracks, Diljit’s musical versatility is unmatched. His world tours, Coachella performance, and international collaborations have placed Indian music on the global map. What makes him more impactful is how he brings other Indian artists along with him, giving them exposure, stage time, and the belief that dreams can go beyond borders.
Diljit’s aura and stage presence are electric—he’s not just an artist, he’s a movement. His journey shows how staying rooted in culture while aiming high can create worldwide recognition.
Why These Stories Matter
These artists have one thing in common: they’ve built careers on individuality, risk-taking, and dedication. They’ve shaped the indie music India wave, inspiring young musicians to think beyond traditional paths. And define success on their own terms.
The FSM Perspective: Where It All Begins
While these icons shine on global stages, their journey often begins with strong musical grounding. This is where Furtados School of Music (FSM) plays a vital role. FSM focuses on building a foundation in music education. From vocal training and instrument mastery to songwriting and live performance skills. Students are not only taught music but are prepared for the real world of music through workshops, collaborations, and performance opportunities.
Final Notes: India’s New Music Era
India is entering a golden era of music—where diversity thrives, and talent finds its voice beyond boundaries. Whether you’re inspired by the Prateek Kuhad story, the rise of Divine rapper India, or the global wave created by Diljit, there’s one clear takeaway: with the right foundation and fearless creativity, anything is possible.
FSM is here to nurture that journey—from first note to first stage.