Our Terms & Conditions | Our Privacy Policy
The Musical Odyssey of Siyer: From Tradition to Innovation
Every song, every show and every day is a new experience says Shriram Iyer (Siyer) (Photo Supplied)
Venkat Raman
Auckland, May 1, 2025
For those who know him Shriram Iyer (aka Siyer) promises yet another memorable performance on May 10, 2025, at Dorothy Winstone Centre in Auckland and for those who do not, this young man promises that they will gain a friend and artist.
Shriram is set to present the ‘Shriram Siyer Iyer Experience’ along with Arpita Chanda and Sunil Das as Co-Singers and an orchestra comprising local talents. A special performance by Viraf Todywalla and his Bollywood Group will be among the highlights of the evening.
The programme, apart from showcasing his musical talent, is also being organised for the self-assigned target of raising funds for the Sri Venkateshwara Devasthanam proposed to be built in Auckland.
Shriram will pay tributes to maestro Shankar Mahadevan with whom he appeared at Logan Campbell Centre in Auckland on May 7, 2005. Twenty years on, he is due to continue his compliment to the famous composer rendering his songs, although he has appeared at a few shows in yesteryears.
Since his formative years, Shriram Iyer (Siyer) has been a creative genius of all sorts- as a singer, composer, producer, director, author and now a Leadership Coach (Photo Supplied)
The rise of a musician
Shriram is a name that resonates deeply within the world of music. His journey, spanning multiple countries and musical traditions, is a testament to his unwavering dedication to the art form.
His story is one of passion, perseverance, and an unrelenting pursuit of musical excellence.
Born into a family that cherishes music, Shriram’s formative years were steeped in melody and rhythm. His early education provided a strong foundation, but it was his innate talent and relentless practice that set him apart. His musical journey began in earnest in New Zealand, where he honed his craft and established himself as a formidable performer. The country’s vibrant cultural landscape offered him opportunities to collaborate with local and international artists, allowing him to refine his style and expand his repertoire.
After obtaining his Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering at the University of Auckland, Shriram moved to the State of Victoria in Australia in 2008 to pursue his Masters in Business Administration (MBA) which included an exchange programme in Marshall Business School, Los Angeles, California, USA.
The move to Australia was propitious as it cemented his status as an internationally acclaimed musician. His performances in Australia were met with widespread acclaim, and he soon found himself sharing the stage with some of the most revered names in the industry. His ability to seamlessly blend classical and contemporary influences made him a favourite among audiences, and his concerts became highly anticipated events.
With a legend on the way to becoming one: Shriram Iyer (right) with Musical Maestro Shankar Mahadevan at an Auckland Concert on May 7, 2025 (INL Photo)
Career Milestones
Shriram’s career has been marked by numerous milestones. He has performed at iconic venues, including the Melbourne Cricket Ground and the Sydney Cricket Ground, during India’s tours of Australia. His rendition of the Indian National Anthem at the Parliament of Victoria was a moment of immense pride, showcasing his ability to bridge cultures through music.
The Rolling Stone Magazine recognised his impact on the global music scene and his presence in the Grammy Consideration List for three consecutive years (2022 to 2024) underscores his influence and artistic prowess.
Shriram has collaborated with legendary artists such as Shankar Mahadevan, Udit Narayan, and Sadhana Sargam. These partnerships have enriched his musical journey, allowing him to explore diverse styles and push creative boundaries. His performances, characterised by their emotive depth and technical brilliance, have captivated audiences worldwide.
“There have been many unforgettable moments. Sharing the stage with icons like Udit Narayan truly felt like a dream come true. Each performance teaches me something new, and I have learned the importance of connecting with the audience. Every concert is a chance to create memories together, and that is what I cherish the most,” Shriram said.
He described his Grammy connection as ‘immense honour.’
“It adds a sense of responsibility and motivates me to continue pushing my boundaries and explore new musical landscapes. I am grateful for the recognition, but my focus remains on creating music that resonates with people,” Shriram said.
Shriram has had memorable success as a singer and songwriter, with over 2.5 million views on YouTube. In 2007, he released his first pop music album, Is Dhundh Mein across India which was launched by popular music director Shankar Mahadevan. He has more than 500 concerts to his credit across the USA, India, New Zealand and Australia.
The May 10 Concert
On 10 May 2025, Shriram will bring his celebrated concert, ‘Shriram Siyer Iyer Experience’ to Auckland. As mentioned, this event is expected to feature a carefully curated selection of musical tributes. The concert will pay homage to Bollywood’s golden era with a tribute to Udit Narayan, transport audiences back to the Indipop revolution of the 1990s and early 2000s and showcase Shriram’s original compositions. Additionally, the event will include a heartfelt tribute to the legendary AR Rahman and a nostalgic remembrance of Mohammed Rafi, whose timeless songs continue to inspire generations.
Shriram said that he was excited to return to Auckland. “The energy from the audience here is electric, and I cannot wait to share ‘The Siyer Experience’ with everyone. It is always special to perform for fans who have supported me over the years,” he said.
While he acknowledges the honour of such recognition, he remains focused on his craft, seeking to push creative boundaries and explore new musical landscapes. Music, he believes, must always strike a chord with people, transcending genres and trends.
Arpita Chanda and Sunil Das
Arpita Chanda is a distinguished vocalist known for her soulful renditions of Ghazals, Geets and Bollywood classics. Originally from Delhi, she made her mark on All India Radio before moving to New Zealand in 2003 and two years ago to Australia. Her presence will add a rich dimension to the evening’s performances. Also gracing the stage will be Sunil Das, a beloved figure in Auckland’s music scene, whose powerful vocals and dynamic stage presence have enthralled audiences for years.
The Other Side
Shriram is a recipient of the Shankar’s International Award for Creative Writing from the President of India.
He is a celebrated author. His first novel, ‘Wings of Silence’ was published by Westland Books/ Grey Oak Publishers in 2012 and in South Korea by Darun Publishers. His second novel, ‘Let Me Go’ was published in 2017 by Fingerprint Publishing (an imprint of Prakash Books).
Shriram has also authored short stories, adapted scripts for theatre and screenplays for short films.
Beyond its musical brilliance, The Siyer Experience serves a noble purpose. The concert is dedicated to raising funds for the Sri Venkateshwara Devasthanam project, an initiative aimed at supporting the development of a temple in Auckland. This endeavour seeks to preserve Indian heritage, traditions, and community engagement in New Zealand, ensuring that future generations remain connected to their cultural roots.
Married to Dr Deepthi Iyer, the couple has one daughter (Aanya) and lives in Melbourne.
For more information, please contact Venki Iyer on 02102898366.
Images are for reference only.Images and contents gathered automatic from google or 3rd party sources.All rights on the images and contents are with their legal original owners.
Comments are closed.