Mrs Gargi Sequeira, a trailblazing South Asian woman DJ artist who defies age stereotypes with her vibrant energy and unmatched talent. Despite being in her 50s, she continues to captivate audiences with her electrifying performances and innovative mixes, proving that age is no barrier to success in the dynamic realm of DJing.
Speaking about her music journey, she said, “I come from a Gujarati family in India. In 2004, I arrived in England and made my debut performance in Croydon. Since then, I've graced various clubs and community events with live singing, showcasing a diverse repertoire ranging from Sanjhi and Mehfils to wedding songs, Bhajans, and Garba.
“Last year, I had the honour of performing at the prestigious London Mayor's Diwali event in Trafalgar Square. Leading my 10-piece band, we kicked off the festivities with a captivating performance, setting the tone for an unforgettable celebration. Additionally, I've been privileged to lead Garba celebrations during Navratri for three consecutive years in the USA, “she added.
Talking about support from the audience, she said, “Throughout my music journey, I've been blessed with unwavering support from audiences and peers. Negativity has been non-existent as admiration and encouragement have fueled my passion. A memorable instance was when a young girl marvelled at my performance at 55, appreciating my dedication and skill. At my recent show, women, in particular, approached me with admiration, eager to capture a moment with me through photographs.”
Speaking about the memorable performance, she said, “For years, my band and I had been a staple at Navratri celebrations in Crawley, delivering electrifying live performances to crowds of enthusiastic attendees.
“However, as circumstances changed and budgets tightened, the organisers approached me with a proposition: transition from live performances to DJing for the upcoming Navratri event, where 1000 to 1500 people were expected to attend. Despite my reservations, I embraced the opportunity with determination and a willingness to adapt. With meticulous preparation and an unwavering commitment to perfection, I took to the DJ booth with confidence. While most DJs focus on beat matching, as a vocalist/DJ, I have a unique advantage—I understand notes and scales, enabling me to curate playlists that harmonise seamlessly,” she added.