Alvida, Asheem

The opening call of "Bandeh" sounds like someone calling out not to you, but to something inside of you. It makes you drop everything and pay a listen. And what a listen it turns out to be. The song epitomizes what Indian Ocean's music is all about - a fusion of styles that span eras and geographies, nectar to one's ears.

Asheem Chakravarty, the band's founder, percussionist and vocalist, passed away on Christmas Day in New Delhi. I had not heard the band's music until about three months ago, and saw them perform for the first time a week later. I know practically nothing of his personal life. And yet, Asheem's passing saddens me like that of a close friend's would. In all my years, this is probably my first experience of how an art form can connect people. It's a very exhilirating, yet humbling experience.

The voice might be gone, but I hope the band plays on. It's time to light up, pop in a CD, and reminisce in the memories of a departed friend.

Asheem Chakravarty. Good musician. Good man. Rest in peace.