"There’s no rulebook for how a woman should move through music—I can be powerful and vulnerable, elegant and raw, feminine and rebellious—all at once."
1. Your music seamlessly fuses cultures. Was there a defining childhood moment that set you on this path?
Hearing M.I.A., Missy Elliott, and Timbaland for the first time was a game-changer. Their music was bold, fearless, and genre-defying. It made me realize I wanted to create something just as raw—something that reflected both my Indian and Swiss heritage while pushing boundaries.
2. The name “BombayMami” carries a strong energy. What does it truly represent beyond just an artist persona?
"BombayMami" is more than a name—it’s an attitude, a statement. It represents duality: my Indian and Swiss roots, my love for both tradition and innovation, and my ability to move between worlds. "Mami" is a term of endearment in many cultures, but it also exudes confidence, playfulness, and power. It’s about owning who I am, no matter where I am.
3. “DhinDhinDha” explores inner conflict. Was there a personal moment that directly inspired the song?
Absolutely. I wrote it after getting out of a difficult situation, realizing that no matter how grown up you are, you never want to disappoint your parents. It’s about carrying expectations, questioning your path, and trying to honor where you come from while still discovering yourself. At its core, “DhinDhinDha” is about self-acceptance and embracing your journey.
4. You mix sitars, bansuri, and tabla with modern beats. What’s one traditional Indian sound you’re eager to experiment with next?
The veena! Its intricate, mesmerizing sound is rich with history, yet it's rarely heard in mainstream fusion music. I’d love to bring it into a modern space and create something fresh with it.
5. Your collaborations span continents. What’s one unexpected lesson you’ve learned from working with artists across cultures?
That music is truly a universal language. Every culture has its own approach to rhythm, melody, and storytelling, and learning from different artists has expanded my creativity in ways I never expected. There’s something magical about blending sounds that traditionally don’t “belong” together and crafting something entirely new.
6. You celebrate body positivity and femininity in your music. Have you ever struggled with self-expression?
Growing up in the ’90s and 2000s, beauty standards were very rigid—Paris Hilton’s body type was the ultimate ideal. But seeing strong, unapologetic women like Missy Elliott and Queen Latifah gave me confidence. They taught me that beauty isn’t just about looks—it’s about how you carry yourself. That’s the energy I bring to my music and my presence today.
7. Looking back, what was the biggest risk you took in your career that changed everything?
Not choosing a traditional career path. There was always pressure to pick something stable, something predictable. But deep down, I knew I had to follow my own road—even with all the uncertainty. Building my own lane and trusting my vision was terrifying at times, but it gave me the freedom to create on my own terms.
8. With Swiss-Indian roots and global influences, where do you feel most at home, both musically and personally?
India fuels my creativity—every time I’m there, I explode with ideas. The energy, the music, the culture—it’s limitless. But Switzerland is my foundation, my structure. It gives me balance. That’s why my music is such a mix—it reflects belonging to two worlds.
9. Your music is fearless. What’s one stereotype about female artists you’re determined to break?
That women in music have to fit into a box—either too “sexy,” too “serious,” or too “soft.” We’re expected to be either the mysterious artist or the hyper-feminine pop star. I reject that. I can be powerful and vulnerable, elegant and raw, feminine and rebellious—all at once. There’s no rulebook for how a woman should move through music.
10. What’s next for BombayMami? Any exciting projects on the horizon?
So much! I’m working on a project that blends even deeper Indian classical elements with modern production—taking ancient sounds and making them futuristic. I’m also designing a special piece for Paris Fashion Week, which is a dream come true. And, of course, some wild collaborations are coming up—but I can’t reveal too much yet. Just know this next phase is going to be bold, cinematic, and completely unapologetic.
Bio:
BombayMami (Shanta Azalea Venkatesh) is a Swiss-Indian artist revolutionizing global music with her fearless fusion of Eastern and Western sounds. Known for seamlessly blending traditional Indian instruments like the sitar and bansuri with contemporary beats, she crafts music that is both bold and soulful. Her latest music video, Fire in Delhi, showcases her signature storytelling, pushing artistic and cultural boundaries. With themes of empowerment, body positivity, and self-expression at the heart of her work, BombayMami is a rising force in the industry, collaborating with international artists and redefining the sound of modern fusion music.
Interviewed by: Insiya Nulwala
Edited by: Shantanu Singh
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