Ekam, a music band that fuses Indian classical traditions with modern and global elements is set to debut at the KL Festival 2026. The band will be part of the festival’s musical programme, showcasing a distinctive fusion sound that honours musical diversity and artistic collaboration on a single stage.
Who is Ekam?
Ekam is a Malaysian fusion music band created to celebrate cross-cultural collaboration through sound. The name “Ekam” comes from Sanskrit, meaning “Oneness,” reflecting the group’s vision of bringing together different musical traditions, cultures, and instruments into one shared musical experience. The ensemble blends Indian classical music with Asian and contemporary influences to create what founder Kumar Karthigesu describes as a truly “Malaysiana” sound.
Who Is In the Group?
For their KL Festival 2026 performance, the Ekam lineup includes:
Kumar Karthigesu: Sitar
Mogethen Gowrisan: Indian violin
Sivabalan Shunmuga Sundram: Mridangam
Vick Ramakrishnan: Tabla
Sesatri S: Bansuri Flute
Together, the musicians combine traditional Indian instruments and rhythms with modern arrangements and multicultural influences.
Ekam will perform in Irama Pusaka, a powerful orchestral celebration of Malaysia’s musical heritage. The event features Orkestra Kuala Lumpur, led by Mohd Isa Ismail. The program showcases Malaysian music, moving from traditional styles to modern orchestral versions.
It highlights how music heritage evolves while staying true to its roots. The performance will also include well-known artists from across the country. Gangsapura will present traditional Malay gamelan, the Lee Rubber Chinese Orchestra will showcase Chinese musical traditions, and sape’ musician Leslie Eli will highlight the sounds of Borneo.
About KL Festival 2026
The KL Festival (KL Fest) 2026 is a 26-day flagship cultural, arts, and community event taking place from May 6 to May 31, 2026, in Downtown Kuala Lumpur. Organized by Think City and Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL), the festival aims to transform the city’s heritage buildings, streets, and public areas into a lively cultural hotspot, with a focus on the theme “Memory and Tomorrow.“
The Irama Pusaka performance is also expected to showcase large-scale collaboration with the 70-piece Orkestra Kuala Lumpur, creating a grand musical experience that combines orchestral arrangements with traditional Asian instruments. As part of KL Festival 2026, Ekam’s debut highlights the festival’s wider celebration of heritage, creativity, and unity through the arts.
Source: NST
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