Shannon K brings an American personal dimension to Indian culture, enriched by her talent nurtured across Mumbai, London, and Los Angeles. Deeply influenced by her famous father, who made history in India, she is now carving her own path—steadily, confidently, and with growing recognition.
Through her music, she takes a stand against bullying. She continues to earn awards, has performed in Times Square and at this year’s Coachella, stars in films, and made a notable appearance at this year’s Cannes Film Festival, where she collaborated with two legends on the film Tanvi the Great. This year in particular, Shannon left a lasting impression on Cannes. Shannon arrived at the Carlton on time. She was very shy, genuinely kind, incredibly polite, and carried herself with a low profile. But the moment she stepped in front of the camera wearing her first gown, she transformed into a true diva—radiant and full of blaze. A star, ready to take her next step toward even greater success.
Her presence and expressive eyes evoke the romantic India we’ve long admired, yet in an instant, often with her signature leather outfits, she transforms into a bold figure, ready to challenge conventions and break barriers. She has even performed the American national anthem. Passionate about music and dance since childhood, Shannon was raised in a family of artists. Yet she stands as an independent force, determined to shape her career on her own terms, guided by her dreams and unwavering self-belief. And she is succeeding brilliantly.
Dress: Charbel Karam Couture
You return to the Cannes Film Festival 2025 with the cast of the upcoming film “Tanvi The Great,” with director, the Indian legendary actor Anupam Kher. You also lent your voice to the movie under M.M. Keeravani (Oscar-winning producer for RRR)’s composition. Tell us more about this. I think you are really excited to have this collaboration with these two legends.
It’s a pleasure to be a part of this project. I’ve admired Anupam Kher sir deeply for his incredible contribution to cinema. His vision and passion for storytelling are truly inspiring. What makes it even more special for me is lending my voice to the film’s soundtrack, composed by the phenomenal Mr. M. M. Keeravani. As someone who’s won an Oscar and brought Indian music to global recognition with RRR, getting to sing
for his composition was a surreal experience.
You were born in Mumbai in mystical India. What can you remember first from this beautiful place? What did you keep in your heart from there?
Mumbai will always hold a very special place in my heart. I was born there, and even though I moved away at a young age, the essence of the city has stayed with me. I remember the colors, the festivals, the hospitality, and of course, I can’t forget the delicious delicacies and just how alive everything felt. What I’ve truly kept in my heart is the deep sense of culture. It’s where my love for music first started, through the classical sounds and Bollywood melodies I heard growing up. Mumbai gave me my roots, and those roots keep me balanced.
Your father is the famous Bollywood music legend Kumar Sanu, but also your grandfather Pashupati Bhattacharya was a composer. Remember the first time close to them that you felt that the music is in your blood and you wanted to sing so much. It’s your karma.
People often say music runs in the blood, but for me, it’s a little different. I was adopted, so when I say music is in my soul, it truly comes from the heart. Growing up listening to my dad’s songs, and hearing stories about my grandfather from him, I was immersed in music from the very beginning—even if not by blood, then by destiny. I believe some connections are written beyond genetics.
When was the first time that you had a performance in public? Can you bring in your memory something? I know you were a little girl! Do you still dance the Indian classical dance form Kathak, or are you now more into pop and too busy for free time?
Kathak will always be a part of me. I trained in it when I was younger, and it taught me so much through movement. It’s such a beautiful and expressive art form. These days, with everything going on—music, performances, travel—I don’t get as much time to practice it regularly. It’s been so long since I left Kathak, and once in a while, I do miss it and miss dancing.
When you moved to London, you studied music at the Royal Academy of Music, London—a real all-time classic. How did you find your way in your music road? Do you experiment?
Studying at the Royal Academy of Music in London was such a turning point for me. It really pushed me to grow, not just technically, but emotionally as an artist. It grounded me in the classics, in discipline, and gave me the freedom to explore who I really am musically. Finding my own voice has been a journey. I definitely love to experiment—whether it’s blending Indian influences with Western pop or trying out new sounds. I think as artists, we’re always evolving. I don’t like to limit myself to one box. My roots are strong, but my heart is always curious. That’s what keeps the music alive for me.
Dress: Inclover Couture
Some months ago you were selected to perform at Coachella 2025, becoming the first indie Indian-origin artist to perform at Coachella. A first time like this writes history for a young singer. Tell us everything.
Honestly, it still feels surreal! Being able to perform and open for hip-hop legend Too Short at Coachella 2025 as the first indie Indian-origin artist was such an overwhelming honor. It’s one of the biggest stages in the world, and to represent not just myself, but a whole wave of indie talent—that’s something I’ll carry with me
forever. The energy at Coachella was electric, and the diversity of the crowd made it even more powerful. Seeing people from all walks of life come together through music reminded me why I love performing. It pushed me to give even more of myself on stage. There was this beautiful exchange of energy—I could feel them vibing with every beat, every lyric.
You go from success to success! You performed at Times Square in NYC too. Let us know about this experience.
Performing at Times Square was absolutely unforgettable. It’s one of those iconic places you dream about as a kid, and suddenly I was standing there, in the heart of New York City, doing what I love. The lights, the energy, the crowd—it was electric. It was more than just a performance. Coming from where I started, and standing on that stage, reminded me how far the journey has come—and the support I received from people throughout the way. It showed me how music truly connects us all, beyond borders or labels.
You had many awards, but I would like you to remember the HMMA Award.
Winning the HMMA Award was one of the most emotional and fulfilling moments of my journey so far. The song Give Me Your Hand is incredibly close to my heart—it was written to speak out against bullying and to raise awareness about mental health, topics that so many people silently struggle with. To be recognized for a song with such a deep and personal message… it meant everything. We created it not for awards, but to help people feel seen, heard, and less alone. So to have that creation acknowledged by the industry—it felt truly special. That night reminded me that when you pour honesty into your art, it resonates. I’ll always be grateful for that recognition and for everyone who connected with the song.
Which was the most impressive moment in your career till now?
I want to say that throughout my career, as opportunities kept coming my way and as I continued to grow, I actually started to surprise and impress myself. Each step has been a learning curve, and honestly, every moment—big or small—has felt like a milestone. From performing at Coachella to winning the HMMA Award, or singing in Times Square—these are all highlights, each with their own story, memory, and emotion attached. It’s hard to choose just one, because they’ve all shaped me in different ways. I’m just grateful for the journey and for every experience that’s made me who I am today.
You acted as lead role in many films too, such as The Big Feed, Chal Zindagi (Amazon Prime), The Mystical Inheritance of Adina Hassan (TV show), Nowhere to Go, Rush Week, etc. Which was the most important for you and why?
Every project I’ve worked on has meant something unique to me, but if I had to choose the most important one, I’d probably say Chal Zindagi really stands out. It was my first Bollywood movie, and to have it released on a platform like Amazon Prime was such a proud moment. It was special. At the same time, The Mystical Inheritance of Adina Hassan challenged me in a completely different way. It had this layered, mysterious tone that pushed me as an actress to tap into emotions I hadn’t explored before.
You were born in spiritual Mumbai, moved to London—which has always had an interesting connection with India—but now you live in fast-paced Los Angeles. Different and difficult places, all of them. What do you keep for your progress from these different worlds? What do you like more and what maybe you don’t?
Yes, I feel incredibly lucky to have lived in such diverse and culturally rich places— each one has shaped me in a different way, both personally and professionally. Mumbai, where I was born, gave me a spiritual grounding. There’s something about the energy, the culture that stays with you forever. It taught me humility. London was where I really began to understand the depth of music. The city has this beautiful balance of tradition and modernity, and it gave me the discipline I needed in life. Now, living in Los Angeles, it’s a completely different vibe—fast-paced, competitive, always on the move. But it also pushes me to grow constantly. It’s where dreams meet hustle. I won’t lie—it can be tough, and sometimes overwhelming, but I’ve learned to stay grounded and focused on my path.
Dress: Madleine Couture; Clutch: Lena Erziak
Was it difficult for you to experiment and handle all these different sides that built your personality?
Yes, absolutely—it wasn’t always easy. Growing up and evolving across such different cultures and environments came with its own set of challenges. At times, it felt like I was walking a tightrope between identities—trying to stay true to my roots while also finding my voice in the Western world. There were moments of confusion, even selfdoubt. But over time, I realized that each experience added a new layer to who I am. It took time, reflection, and sometimes a little inner struggle, but now I embrace it
fully.
I focused more on you when you collaborated with music producer Kyle Townsend in support of victims of bullying, Give Me Your Hand. Remind us of some things about it. You want to fight bullying with your music, and finally, the music is the message.
Give Me Your Hand is one of the most personal and meaningful songs I’ve ever worked on. Collaborating with the incredible Kyle Townsend, and written by my younger sister Annabelle, this project was truly special. The song was created as a voice for those who’ve been bullied, isolated, or made to feel like they don’t belong.
The song was also based on our own set of experiences—facing discrimination, a little bit of sexism, and overall mental health struggles. So I wanted to create a message of support, empathy, and unity. Something that says: you’re not alone, I see you, and I stand with you.
I love that you are really involved in many important causes around the world. But you touched me so much when you donated your long hair to the “Little Princess” cancer charity in the United Kingdom.
Donating my hair to the Little Princess Trust in the UK was one of the most emotional and meaningful things I’ve ever done. I’ve always believed that even the smallest gesture can make a big impact. The thought that my hair could help a child going through something as difficult as cancer—to help them feel beautiful, confident, and strong again—it moved me deeply. These children are real fighters, and if I could offer even a little comfort or confidence through something so personal, I knew I had to do it. It reminded me that kindness is a kind of power. I try to use my platform not just to entertain, but to support and uplift in any way I can. Because at the end of the day, that’s what truly matters.
Many people don’t know that you have your own makeup and jewelry line. What can you tell us for this season?
Yes, I do have my own makeup and jewelry lines, which have been such exciting projects for me! But to be honest, I’m still learning so much. The beauty industry is constantly evolving, and right now I’m in a phase where I’m observing, studying what other amazing brands are doing, and really understanding what people want and need. I’ve taken a little step back to reflect and grow before diving into the next phase—but I definitely have ideas that I’m passionate about, and I’m slowly developing them behind the scenes. So hopefully in the near future, there will be some beautiful new products coming your way. I’m really excited for what’s to come, and I’m taking my time to make sure it’s done with care, purpose, and a lot of love.
Tell us more about you… describe yourself when we don’t look at you.
Honestly, I’m really not as mature as I might seem online or on camera. In fact, I constantly need guidance—whether it’s making big life decisions or just figuring out what to eat for dinner! I’m super indecisive, a little all over the place, and my mind is always bouncing between a hundred things at once. I guess that’s probably the Gemini in me! I can be silly, totally random, and I say the most ridiculous things without even realizing it—but I think that’s part of my charm. I’m extremely sensitive—I feel deeply, I overthink, and I care a lot more than I let on. So, while I may come across as put-together, truthfully I’m just a lovable mess trying to figure it
all out with humor, heart, and a little help along the way. I am definitely not a “knowit-all” person.
All your vibe and the way of thinking, with the spirit that you make your songs— they give me the vibe of a healer of love. Isn’t it true? Are you?
Wow, thank you so much for that beautiful insight. I’ve always believed music has the power to heal and connect hearts, so hearing that my songs give off a healing vibe means the world to me. I don’t know if I’m a ‘healer of love’ in the traditional sense, but if my music can bring even a little light or comfort to someone’s soul, then that feels like a true blessing. Love really is the greatest energy we can share, and I try to channel that spirit in everything I create.
Who are you—with a quote that tells us everything at once?
Young in spirit, bold in dreams.
Credits:
Starring: Shannon K.
Photography: Greg Alexander
Production: Mephistopheles Productions
Art Director: Sébastien Vienne
Interview: Ada Iliopoulou
Hair & Makeup: Shahrzad Lozani
Special thanks Hôtel Carlton Cannes