OutStation Boy Band Carves Unique Path in Indian Music Scene
Members of the emerging Indian boy band OutStation have firmly stated they are not attempting to emulate or copy any other musical groups, despite frequent comparisons to global sensations like BTS and One Direction. The five-member ensemble emphasizes their sole focus is on discovering and developing their own distinctive sound and artistic identity.
From Diverse Backgrounds to National Stage
The group comprises Bhuvan Shetty, 22, from Udupi; Hemang Singh, 20, from Prayagraj; Mashaal Shaikh, 21, from Goa; Kurien Sebastian, 20, from Delhi; and Shayan Pattem, 17, an army kid from Hyderabad. These young artists represent some of the latest and most promising entrants to India's vibrant music landscape.
Their rapid ascent includes the significant achievement of opening for international superstar Akon at a massive Mumbai concert last November, followed shortly by the release of their debut single Tum Se. The band recently performed in Hyderabad, where they shared insights about their remarkable journey and the strong bond that unites them.
The Rigorous Boot Camp Foundation
The OutStation story began with an online audition process curated by Grammy-nominated Indian-American songwriter-producer Savan Kotecha in collaboration with two prominent global music companies. "It was actually Savan's idea, and he was closely involved from the very beginning," reveals Mashaal Shaikh.
He elaborates, "We discovered the audition opportunity on Instagram and submitted our applications alongside thousands of other hopefuls. After successfully navigating multiple competitive rounds, we learned we had secured positions among the top twelve finalists."
Those selected were transported to Goa for an intensive, month-long boot camp that commenced in May of last year. Kurien Sebastian describes the demanding regimen: "The training was exceptionally rigorous — our days typically began at 7 AM and frequently extended until 10 PM. The schedule included fitness sessions, followed by comprehensive performance training, vocal coaching, dance instruction, along with workshops, professional photoshoots, and valuable industry interactions."
Every weekend featured showcases where their progress was meticulously evaluated through a detailed point system, creating a structured environment for growth and development.
A Brotherhood Beyond Bandmates
Discussing their offstage relationship, Mashaal Shaikh explains, "We currently reside together in a spacious 5BHK apartment in Mumbai's Bandra Kurla Complex. Our music practice sessions are never formally scheduled — they occur spontaneously and organically. One person might begin playing an instrument or singing, another joins in, and suddenly all five of us are engaged in an impromptu jam session."
He continues, "Someone might simply walk out of their room humming a melody, and it effortlessly transforms into a full musical collaboration. There's constantly music happening within our home. While most days are dedicated to structured training, dance rehearsals, and practice, whenever we find free moments, we naturally gravitate toward creating music together."
Shayan Pattem adds a poignant perspective: "What's truly remarkable is that we were complete strangers when we initially met at the boot camp. Living together, training intensively, and overcoming challenges collectively for several months fundamentally transformed our relationship — we've now become more like brothers than mere bandmates."
Musical Education Transforming Artistic Vision
Opening up about their commitment to exploring new musical styles and refining their craft, Shayan Pattem shares, "We've recently embarked on studying both Indian classical and Western music traditions. This represents an entirely new and enriching experience for each of us."
He elaborates on the dual approach: "Both musical styles contribute in distinct and valuable ways. I personally studied Indian classical music during my childhood before transitioning completely to Western styles. Now returning to classical training, I've gained renewed appreciation for its profound utility. Our vocal coaches work meticulously with our individual voices, exploring their full potential and range. Combining both traditions feels like achieving the perfect artistic synthesis."
The impact of this musical education is already manifesting in their daily routines. Shayan illustrates with an example: "Consider Hemang — he's consistently engaged in his riyaaz (practice). We don't even refer to him as Hemang anymore; we call him Re Sa Ri Sa Ni. The moment he awakens or emerges from his room, he's diligently practicing," he says with laughter.
The Meaning Behind the Name
When questioned about the inspiration behind their band name OutStation, the group explains it represents a tribute to their diverse hometowns and their collective journey from small-town dreamers to emerging pan-India pop artists based in Mumbai.
"The name carries deeper significance for us," emphasize Mashaal and Hemang. "The term 'outstation' itself feels authentically Indian. We've all used this expression while growing up, such as informing our school teachers, 'I'm outstation, I cannot attend.' It's such a distinctly desi (Indian) term."
Bhuvan Shetty concludes with agreement: "Therefore, the name felt profoundly personal and genuine. While the global audience might not fully comprehend its cultural resonance, every Indian immediately understands its meaning — and that's precisely what makes it uniquely special for us."
