Bhajan Jamming is drawing young India back to spirituality

For many young people today, spirituality is moving beyond traditional gatherings into shared spaces of music, chants and community. Across cities, bhajan jamming sessions and kirtan nights are drawing people across generations, turning devotional gatherings into spaces of connection in an increasingly screen-driven world. As Backstage Siblings prepare for their Lucknow performance on May 10 at Dayal Gateway, artists, organisers and attendees reflect on why bhajan jamming is resonating with people today.
Escaping the scroll through collective chants
Digital fatigue is pushing young people towards spaces that feel emotionally grounding, says Raghav of Backstage Siblings. “We live in a time where everyone is constantly consuming, scrolling and comparing, and that can leave people feeling exhausted and disconnected. In that environment, being able to sit with others, sing together and be present in the moment creates a very different kind of feeling, “ he says.

Prachi, one of the Backstage Siblings’ says young people are reconnecting with spirituality on their own terms. “For a lot of young people, spirituality is not something they are turning away from. They simply want to experience it in a way that feels welcoming and emotionally honest. They are searching for warmth, connection and a space where they can feel understood without any expectations or judgement.”
Mohit Bijlani, founder of a Mumbai-based private events company, says the rising trend amongst the youth is increasing demand for devotional concerts. “As organisers, we are also curating spiritual concerts across cities including metros, now because we’re seeing young audiences connect deeply with bhajans that mix traditional and contemporary sounds.”
Bhajan sessions as new community spaces
Many people feel isolated despite constantly being around others, and that loneliness is drawing them towards bhajan gatherings. “A lot of people today are surrounded by others but still feel alone. Everyone is moving fast and trying to figure out their own lives. In that kind of environment, sitting with strangers and singing the same line together can feel deeply healing,” says Prachi.
Twinkle, 27, who attended a Backstage Siblings session in Kolkata, says these gatherings feel like a detox from everyday life. “After a week full of work and doom scrolling, these devotional jamming sessions bring peace. Singing and chanting together with friends creates a sense of belonging and feels healing in times of social media isolation.” She adds, “At least this is one trend parents are happy about.”

Spirituality that moves with Gen Z’s rhythm
Prachi, from Backstage Sibling says every generation connects with spirituality differently. “The emotion was always there, but the way young people were invited into it had to change. Gen Z connects with things that feel real and personal. When devotion becomes collective and free of judgment, they naturally respond to it.”
Ameira Punvani, a Lucknowite who attended a bhajan concert in Mumbai, says these gatherings now attract all age groups. “The energy felt both meditative and electric. People today are craving calm and collective connection. It feels less about religion and more about finding peace through music and devotion.”

When the internet rewired spirituality
For a generation raised online, devotion is taking new forms. Backstage Siblings believe the internet has reshaped how young people engage with spirituality. “People now see devotion as joyful, expressive and collective. Young audiences are not just watching performances, they are singing along, suggesting songs and becoming part of the experience.”
-Amina Ashraf