For Anjali Phougat, an Indian-origin designer based in the United States, music is far more than something playing in the background; it is a constant companion through her creative process and everyday life. In a candid conversation, she spoke about what music means to her, the songs she keeps returning to, and the sounds that help her stay grounded.
Talking about what music means to her, on the occasion of World Music Day, which is observed on June 21, she said, “Music has always been more than sound for me; it feels like energy, vibration, and healing. It has accompanied me through creation, reflection, travel, and even silence.”
On the role music plays in her everyday life, she said, “Music is my inner alignment tool. I listen when I’m designing, meditating, travelling, or unwinding. It helps me shift energy from chaos to calm, from fatigue to inspiration.”
Speaking about the kind of music she enjoys the most, she said, “I gravitate towards soulful, devotional, and fusion music. I love a blend of Indian classical, Sufi, and soft contemporary sounds, music that carries emotion and depth.”
On the song that instantly lifts her mood, she said, “‘Shiv Kailashon Ke Vasi’ or any uplifting mantra-based composition instantly elevates my energy. Among Bollywood tracks, ‘Ilahi’ also brings a sense of freedom and joy.”
Asked about her favourite genre and why, she said, “Devotional fusion and Sufi music. It connects me to something beyond the mind; it feels grounding yet expansive at the same time.”
Talking about how often she listens to Bollywood music, she said, “Quite often, especially while travelling or during creative work. I enjoy Bollywood for its emotional storytelling and nostalgia.”
On her favourite Bollywood singer and why, she said, “Arijit Singh for his emotional depth and ability to make every lyric feel personal. ” I also deeply respect classics from Lata Mangeshkar; her voice feels timeless and devotional.”
Speaking about a song that brings back a special memory, she said, “‘Tum Prem Ho’ by my dear friend Mohit Lalwani reminds me of a phase of deep emotional transformation and self-reflection in life.”
On what’s currently on repeat for her, she said, “Meditation chants, Sufi playlists, and instrumental fusion tracks, especially Shiva mantra-based soundscapes and soft piano and sitar blends.”
Anjali summed up her relationship with music by saying, “Music, for me, is not just something I listen to; it’s something I feel, create around, and sometimes even design with.”
