After spending over a decade together as a band, SANAM finds itself in an unusual phase — one where success is no longer the central question. Having built one of India's most recognisable independent music acts through YouTube, live shows, renditions, and originals, the four members are now confronting something quieter but perhaps more important: rediscovery.
A Period of Introspection
During a recent conversation with Pune Times, the band repeatedly returned to the idea of trying to understand themselves again — not as a brand or business, but as artists. Lead vocalist Sanam Puri described the current period as deeply introspective. "This is a phase of rediscovery for us," he said. "Understanding who we truly are and what we enjoy. That takes time." Rather than rushing to constantly release music, the band has consciously chosen to slow down and reassess what fulfilment means creatively. "We want to create from a place of fulfilment, not exhaustion or pressure," Sanam added.
Emotional Honesty and Artistic Compromise
That emotional honesty also extended into the band's reflections on success and artistic compromise. Sanam admitted that many artists who appear successful publicly may still feel creatively disconnected internally. "A lot of artists may seem successful on the outside, but internally they feel unsatisfied," he said. "There's often a fear that their true expression won't be accepted." Guitarist Samar Puri compared that pressure to "wearing a mask", while the rest of the band discussed how difficult it can become to remain emotionally connected to one's own art amid industry expectations.
Patience and Reinvention
For bassist Venky, reinvention itself requires patience. "If you want to bring a change, you have to take time and internalise it," he explained. "Only then can something meaningful happen." The conversation reflected a band that is no longer chasing momentum for its own sake. Instead, SANAM appears increasingly interested in understanding what kind of music still excites them after years of performing, touring, and navigating the pressures of visibility.
Shifting Approach to Social Media
Even their approach to social media and audience engagement now seems tied to this broader emotional shift. Rather than simply adapting to trends, the band wants to reconnect with the reasons they started making music in the first place. This introspective journey underscores a mature perspective on creativity, where internal satisfaction takes precedence over external validation.
About the Author
Toshiro Agarwal is a journalist with Pune Times and writes entertainment and lifestyle features, news and interviews.
