BAVINA SOOKDEO
Sasha Balchan, a dynamic 30-year-old from South Oropouche, is a teacher, singer and bandleader who is continuing a legacy of Indian music and heritage passed down through generations.
Balchan started singing and playing the harmonium when she was nine. Her love for local classical and traditional Indian music was inspired by her late grandfather.
“I would sing bhajans (Hindu devotional songs) during Sunday service and annual yagnas at my mandir where I used to live in Jokhan Trace,” she said.
Her grandfather, the late Babwah Teekaram, was a well-known local classical singer who introduced her to the artform.
“He encouraged me to sing local classical. Later on, Ravi Jagroop, a well-known local classical singer, also assisted me with different styles and techniques of local classical singing.” While music remains one of Balchan’s greatest passions, it isn’t her full-time pursuit. By day, she is a teacher at Mohess Road Hindu School – a role she embraces wholeheartedly.
“I have a passion for teaching. I love helping kids grow, watching their eyes light up when they learn something new and being there for them through every step.”
Still, music holds a special place in her heart.
“Music is not a career to me but more of a hobby and passion which was pursued by the emotional connection, and the dream of creating something that could touch others the way music touched me.”
That passion has led her to several notable achievements. “Some of my most memorable moments were winning the NCIC Youth Champ Competition in 2013 as well as placing third in the finals of the annual Chinpire Local Classical Competition. I was also honoured to be a part of the Neeleeji Independence Local Classical and Traditional Chutney Competition.”
Balchan’s music is a reflection of her Hindu upbringing. Her grandfather’s voice and presence remain a guiding force.
“Growing up surrounded by the sounds of traditional instruments, devotional songs, and the stories of gods and goddesses, music became a spiritual experience for me, not just an art form.
“Hearing my grandfather singing local classical as well as traditional chutney made me feel like I was destined to do this as well, as it was a tradition passed down from generation to generation.”
[caption id="attachment_1153661" align="alignnone" width="768"] Sasha Balchan is a teacher, singer and bandleader of Brahamastra Sangeet. -[/caption]
Recently, she realised a longtime dream – the formation of her own band called Brahamastra Sangeet.
“We sing at all religious functions as well as maticoors (the night turmeric is applied on the skin of the bride and groom), weddings and parties. The members of the band are my talented friends and family.”
The band began with Balchan as the lead singer and harmonium player, her husband, Vishal Heralal, plays the dholak and octopad (percussion instruments) and close friend Vikash Ramlakhan, a skilled percussionist and dholak player.
“Later on, more talented, amazing and humble family and friends joined the group.”
