San Diego vocalist to revive rare songs from India in debut concert
ENCINITAS, Calif. (FOX 5/KUSI) — On July 27, the sacred will meet the sublime as vocalist Vineetha Menon takes the stage at the Seaside Center for Spiritual Living in Encinitas to debut her first album, RASA, in a live performance that promises to be as personal as it is transcendental.
Blending ancient Indian devotional music with cinematic and contemporary Western influences, the evening promises to be a transcendent experience rooted in love, storytelling, and soulful connection.
Backed by an ensemble of world-class musicians (some local), Menon is set to bring the ancient story of the Rasa Lila to life in a spiritual, cross-cultural celebration. The story depicts the mythic love tale between Lord Krishna and the gopis (village girls) of Vrindavan — a city, considered holy, in Uttar Pradesh, India.
“RASA evokes a profound sense of love for me,” Menon told FOX 5/KUSI. “My debut album is a love story inspired by an ancient scripture that symbolizes the divine dance between spirit and nature.”
Menon’s music delves deep into devotional kirtans and rare spiritual compositions passed down by the mystic saints of India. Each song, the artist explains, echoes a love that transcends the material, evoking what Indian philosophy describes as bhakti—pure, ecstatic devotion to the divine.
“I chose the name RASA because it is the name of this divine love story and also because it represents nectar, essence, and flavor—elements that inspire emotions beyond description,” Menon explained.
The music on her album explores the full spectrum of love’s emotional terrain: longing, conflict, separation, joy, and reunion.
“This album weaves together all these feelings, featuring innocent prayers, Krishna’s playful spirit, and the rich tapestry of joy, despair, and ultimately the ecstatic joy of oneness,” said Menon. “Each composition, enhanced by the talents of incredible artists, conveys these beautiful emotions.”
Vineetha Menon is pictured as a child in India. (Courtesy of Vineetha Menon)
While the entire album is deeply personal, one particular track, “Daya Karo,” holds special meaning to the vocalist. Taught to her by her late father when she was a child, the song holds emotional resonance and sparks cherished memories.
“Including it in the album pays tribute to the wonderful man he was,” she explained. “I look forward to performing it live at the concert, honoring his legacy while sharing these special moments with everyone.”
This upcoming concert marks Menon’s first-ever live performance, and while excitement is high, she said she’s also overcome with gratitude. Though a little nervous about things running smoothly, she expressed confidence that “the love and energy from the audience will be a beautiful support.”
“Encinitas holds a special place in my heart and is deeply connected to this album,” said Menon. “It was my visit to the Self Realization Fellowship Gardens that inspired my move from the U.K. to the U.S.”
She also noted that the venue has hosted esteemed artists like Krishna Das, an American vocalist known for his performances of Hindu devotional music, and Snatam Kaur, who performs new age Indian devotional music.
Her album was also recorded in Encinitas at Big Fish Recording Studio, the same studio where multi-platinum albums by iconic artists like Blink 182 and Jimmy Eat World were created.
Joining Menon onstage is a stellar cast of musical collaborators, including:
- Miles Shrewsbery on tabla (a traditional Indian drum)
- Pandit Radha Prasad on bansuri (bamboo flute)
- Pankaj Mishra on sarangi (a bowed, short-necked three-stringed instrument)
- Pete Jacobson, a Grammy-winning cellist
- Radhika Vekaria, Grammy-nominated vocalist and pianist
- Owen Kortz, award-winning singer-songwriter on acoustic guitar
- Trevor Arthur, San Diego-based Kirtan artist on harmonium and vocals
- Trevor Mulvey, on upright bass
- Radhika Ekbote, vocalist and classical Indian vocal coach
Adding another dimension to the evening, Menon has planned a special guest performance by dancers from Kathak Darshan School of Dance, led by Debjani Chakraborty. She says their artistry is sure to bring an added visual layer to the performance.
Performing RASA live marks a major milestone for Menon, 54, who began this creative journey just two years ago, without formal musical training. She said the entire journey has been a leap of faith driven by pure inspiration.
Vineetha Menon is pictured. (Courtesy of Vineetha Menon)
As the concert approaches, Menon’s intentions are clear: “I want everyone to leave feeling uplifted and at peace, having experienced the profound beauty created when the East meets the West in harmony. Music has the power to unite us all, and these ancient songs carry a spiritual vibration that must be felt. I’m excited to share this journey with you all live!”
Tickets to the “Sacred Music Concert” can be purchased online ahead of the event, which is slated for Sunday, July 27 at 7 p.m.
For one night in Encinitas, the eternal dance of love, longing, and divine connection will echo through voice, rhythm, and spirit. And RASA—as Vineetha Menon envisioned—will come alive.
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