Celebrating a Grammy-Nominated Musical Journey
Awards are just beautiful milestones in a much longer, winding path. This collection is a peek into the Grammy experience—a shared dream built on years of love, family, and deep musical roots.
Holding my first ever Grammy nominee medal. This little piece of metal is a reassurance that true art, hard work, and pure intention will always shine through.
On the red carpet at the Grammys. I was so proud to represent India, wearing a beautiful ensemble from Raw Mango. This nomination was a win in so many ways.
With the otherworldly genius Jacob Collier at the Grammys. Sharing this monumental moment with him and the brilliant Anoushka Shankar was so special.
With my brilliant sis Anoushka Shankar. We were both nominated for our collaboration with Jacob Collier, and it was a joy to celebrate music together.
This was for my medal-receiving evening. I proudly wore this stunning outfit that celebrates Indian fabrics and design, created by my amazing friends. It feels like a family project, because it is.
A closer look at the beautiful, handcrafted necklace I wore for the Grammy nominee celebration. Every detail was a celebration of Indian artistry.
A full-length view of the pant-suit and jacket ensemble I wore. The design incorporates traditional elements in a modern silhouette, which is how I feel about my music too.
Another shot of this special outfit. The best life is when your people celebrate you, and you celebrate them. I feel so much love and gratitude.
The back of this jacket has such beautiful detailing, celebrating Indian handicrafts. It was an honor to wear this creation from my talented friends.
With fellow Grammy nominees Arooja Aftab and Anoushka Shankar. It was an evening filled with electric enthusiasm and a shared love for music.
About The Journey: Recognition & Milestones
It is not really about the medal. These images capture a week in Los Angeles that felt less like an industry event and more like a 'jaathre'—a musical fair. The true magic was not the red carpet, but the chance to connect, improvise, and simply break bread with friends like Jacob Collier and Anoushka Shankar who have inspired me for years.
While the Grammy nomination for my album 'Vari' is a moment I cherish, it is truly a celebration of the community that surrounds me. This journey did not start in Los Angeles; it began when I was a toddler, memorizing ragas before I could speak full sentences. My music is the result of that long, beautiful lineage—the Guru Parampara and the support of my Appa and Amma.
The 'Vari' Philosophy
My work often centres on the intersection of deep-rooted Carnatic music and the improvisational freedom of global jazz. 'Vari' was my way of taking these ancient sounds and letting them flow into new, modern spaces. It is not just about the technicalities of Gamakas or odd-meter rhythms; it is about finding that sweet spot where Indian fabrics, handicrafts, and global sounds meet.
Why This Recognition Matters
People often ask if the accolades change the approach. They do not. They simply reassure me that true art and pure intention are felt by others. Whether I am teaching a student in my Bengaluru academy, conducting a workshop in Bogotá, or jamming with friends at an awards ceremony, the goal remains the same: sharing the joy of music.
This collection of moments—from the red carpet in LA to quiet, candid studio sessions—is for my artistic family. It serves as a reminder that we are all goodness-explorers, trying to breathe life into the music that is always waiting in the air. If you are a fellow musician, a student, or a collaborator looking to create something meaningful, I invite you to join this musical family.
Varijashree Venugopal
I am just a seeker of music who started humming ragas before I could even talk. My work blends the deep, spiritual roots of Carnatic music with the freedom of global jazz, and I am always looking to connect with fellow musicians who want to create from the heart.
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