Midival Punditz: Shaping India's Electronic Music Legacy
For over two decades, Midival Punditz, the pioneering duo of Gaurav Raina and Tapan Raj, have been at the forefront of India's electronic music movement. They have masterfully blended Indian classical textures with global electronica, creating a unique sonic identity that has defined the genre known as Indian electronica. As early architects of this sound, they continue to evolve in a rapidly shifting musical landscape, navigating the influences of AI tools, streaming platforms, and an increasingly borderless sonic world. In a recent conversation, they reflect on cultural identity, technology, and the dynamic pulse of India's independent electronic scene.
Cultural Identity: An Organic Expression
Gaurav Raina emphasizes that cultural identity in music is not a fading concept but one that has deepened over time. He states, "The idea of identity is far too deeply rooted to ever become irrelevant." According to him, when artists express something honest and true, their identity naturally infuses the work. In the context of Midival Punditz, this carries an inherent "Indian-ness"—not as a superficial label or trend, but as something organic and lived-in.
Raina cautions against reducing identity to mere surface markers. "The problem isn't identity disappearing; it's when it's reduced to a construct," he explains. "True identity isn't something you apply to music; it's something that reveals itself through it. And that will always remain relevant." This perspective highlights how authenticity in artistry transcends fleeting trends, ensuring cultural roots remain integral to creative expression.
AI and the Future of Creativity: A Tool with Limits
Addressing the growing presence of artificial intelligence in music-making, Gaurav Raina views AI as an enabler rather than a threat, but with clear boundaries. "It's definitely an expansion, but with limits," he says. "AI is a powerful tool. It can open up possibilities, speed things up, even inspire directions you might not have explored."
However, he draws a firm line at authorship and intent. "At its core, it still operates on learning and replicating what already exists. It doesn't have intent, lived experience, or emotional truth, and that's where the artist comes in." For Raina, the concern is not replacement but dependence. "The real risk isn't AI itself, but how it's used. If it starts replacing perspective instead of supporting it, that's when it becomes problematic." This nuanced view underscores the importance of human creativity in an era of technological advancement.
India's Evolving Electronic Underground: A Scene in Growth
Tapan Raj challenges the notion that India's indie electronic movement has lost its edge as it has become more visible and structured. "We have come from Delhi's underground club circuit but have toured extensively in Mumbai as well," he says. "The underground electronic music scene across the country is still very much prevalent, and in many ways, it's growing."
According to Raj, the scene is constantly reshaping itself through new platforms, technologies, and spaces. "It keeps changing its shape with emerging social media, production tools, artists, venues, and promoters. There are very cutting-edge movements happening across India; it's an exciting time to be an electronic music artist here." This optimism reflects a vibrant and adaptive community that continues to thrive despite global changes.
Aesthetic vs. Political: The Role of Electronic Music
On whether electronic music risks becoming purely aesthetic in a globalized market, Tapan Raj is unequivocal. "We have always made music without thinking about making any political statement," he says. "Having said that, any art form can be construed as political even if it's not consciously created that way."
He points out that Indian electronic music today is thriving across various platforms and formats. "It is very much a powerful and popular genre right now, on streaming platforms, festivals, clubs, and even films. It is being consumed not just for its aesthetic value, but for how honestly it connects with audiences." This highlights the genre's broad appeal and its ability to resonate on emotional and cultural levels beyond mere style.
In summary, Midival Punditz's journey illustrates the enduring relevance of cultural identity in music, the balanced use of AI as a creative tool, and the robust growth of India's electronic underground. Their insights offer a compelling look into the past, present, and future of a genre that continues to evolve and inspire.
