Taren Kaur is a singer-songwriter and composer with a lifelong passion for music. Inspired by her father’s Kirtan and her mother’s Sitar lessons, she began playing guitar at age seven and went on to study music formally. While composing for TV and film, Taren discovered a deep spiritual connection through singing Shabad on guitar. This experience led her to focus on Kirtan and spiritually inspired music as a way to connect with the Divine and share peace, love, and joy with others.
In an interview with Asian Voice, Taren spoke about the connection with her faith while singing Kirtan, spiritual message through music and much more.
Do you feel a deeper connection with your faith when you’re singing Kirtan? How does it influence your daily life?
Singing Kirtan deepens my connection with Sikhi and with Guru Ji every single day. The more I immerse myself in Gurbani, the more I learn. Each Shabad carries so much wisdom and guidance, and when I reflect on the meanings while singing, it really opens my heart in such a powerful way.
Kirtan is a constant presence in my daily life. From the moment I wake up, I find myself singing or humming Shabads, working on new compositions and projects throughout the day, or listening to music or Kirtan that inspires me. It helps brings a sense of peace and clarity, and I feel it keeps me more aligned with Guru Ji’s teachings on this rollercoaster of life.
I think the practice of singing Kirtan encourages me to be more mindful in how I live, speak, and serve. It reminds me to focus on the bigger picture, and to strive to live with love and humility. It’s a gift that I am incredibly grateful for that constantly uplifts and guides me.
Do you find that music has helped you build bridges across different communities and cultures?
Music is universal - it transcends barriers and allows people from all backgrounds to connect, feel, and relate. I’ve been so touched to see people from different cultures and faiths attend live Kirtan events or listen to my tracks, and share how the music impacted them, even if they don’t understand Punjabi. And that’s the beauty of Gurbani and Kirtan - it’s a Divine vibration that connects and speaks directly to the soul.
I feel grateful to be able to share the message of Oneness through Kirtan. Gurbani teaches us that we are all connected, and that the Divine Light exists within every being - and I really try to reflect that in the music I create. Whether I’m performing live or sharing content online, it’s so inspiring and heartwarming to see how people from all over the world and different walks of life engage with it.
I’ve also been blessed to work with people from different backgrounds and collaborate across genres. It’s lovely to see how music can bring communities together. Gurbani and Kirtan are inclusive - not exclusive. And I hope my work helps more people feel connected and uplifted, no matter their background.
Vaisakhi marks the birth of the Khalsa. How do you reflect this message of spiritual strength and unity through your music?
I always try to carry the teachings of the Guru’s through my music. I’ve always felt that Kirtan is for everyone, and I hope the music I create can help people from all walks of life feel peace, connection, and a sense of belonging. Whether someone understands the words or not, the vibration and energy of Gurbani can still be deeply healing.
My music blends traditional Kirtan with modern and western influences, reflecting both my heritage and the world I grew up in. I want it to feel authentic to me, while also being accessible to a wide audience. That fusion has helped bridge generations and communities, and I’ve been blessed to see it become a doorway for many to explore Sikhi and the Guru’s message.
I also write English spiritual songs inspired by Gurbani and the teachings of the Guru’s, and create animated videos for children, helping them connect with Sikhi, Kirtan and Punjabi language from a young age. Through all of this, my intention is to share love, light, and unity - qualities that I feel reflect the spirit of the Khalsa. If even one person feels more connected to God through the music or work I do, then I feel I’ve done my job.
How do you envision the role of devotional music evolving in today’s world, especially for younger generations?
I believe devotional music has an important role in today’s world, especially as more people seek peace, healing, and deeper connection. Kirtan, mantra, and spiritual music create space to slow down and reconnect-something we all need in times of stress and anxiety.
For younger generations, it’s vital to make this music feel relatable and accessible. Whether through traditional instruments, fusion styles, or digital platforms, the essence of Kirtan-love, devotion, and connection-remains the same.
That’s why I also create music for children, using animated songs and videos to make learning meaningful and fun. Planting those seeds early can help build a lifelong bond with devotional music and with God. I’m hopeful about the next generation carrying this tradition forward in their own unique way.
