Hyderabad: The Kaalam band is on a mission to bring about change through music. Hailing from Kerala, the band is not just another group of musicians, they are a group of like-minded young men fighting for a cause. With their unique blend of rap and metal, Kaalam aims to address deep-seated social issues and inspire younger generation that they feel have lost its voice. Kaalam band is playing tunes, telling stories, raising questions, and challenging norms, all while staying true to their mission: music with a purpose.
Their goal is not to take sides in politics, but rather to encourage thought and self-awareness through their songs. "We want our music to resonate with people, to make them reflect on the insecurities and challenges in society," says the band in interview with ETV Bharat. Their powerful music and thought-provoking lyrics strike a balance between social commentary and accessible and relatable tunes that stir the hearts of listeners.
Since their debut with the track Kaalam, the band has built a bank of eight songs, all of which carry a distinctive rap-metal flavour. Though the band started with just a few members, their vision has expanded. Today, Kaalam aspires to be a rock-metal force recognised across India. Their roots are in Thiruvananthapuram, but they have since spread their influence across the state, performing at numerous venues and concerts.
The members of Kaalam, Bhumi (lead vocalist), Ananthu (bass guitarist), Remjat Sherif (drummer), and Alex Stanley (guitarist), come from diverse backgrounds, with most of them working in the IT sector. Despite their day jobs, they nurtured their passion for music. Bhumi, who also happens to be a professional dancer, was the one who dreamt of forming the band. At the start, the group faced several challenges, from finding a space to jam to dealing with unsupportive neighbors. However, they kept pushing themselves, and despite limited resources, Kaalam have already performed at over ten venues in just a year and a half.
Bhumi, reflecting on the band's journey, says, "We didn't expect to make it overnight. We started with nothing, but each concert we did received a positive response. That's what has kept us going." The band believes that 2025 will be a significant year, bringing even more opportunities for growth and exposure.
As for the name "Kaalam," it holds a deep significance. The word "Kaalam," which translates to "time," was chosen because it represents the era the band speaks of, an era of awakening and change. "Our songs tell the story of Kaalam itself. The world is changing, and our music is a reflection of that," says the band.