Singapore’s singing twins of Indian-origin, Sriram and Ganesh Bala, popularly known as The Bala Boys, have made a proud mark globally with their appearance on the iconic Times Square billboard in New York City. The musical duo, known for their unique fusion of Indian classical and Western vocal styles, were featured for their latest meditative music album ‘OM AND AFFIRMATIONS’.
The album, a collaboration with SiriusXM and Pandora, was launched in honour of World Meditation Day (May 21), and was on display from May 16–22, 2025.
“This album was never just about music. It’s a healing experience — where ancient raagas, breath, and intention come together to calm the nervous system and reconnect us to what’s real,” said Sriram and Ganesh, speaking to Connected to India’s Sudipto Maity.
“In a time where so many are overwhelmed, distracted, and disconnected… we wanted to create something that helps people come home to themselves. To see it featured in the heart of New York City — where life moves faster than breath — is a reminder: stillness has a place in this world. And it starts within,” the brothers added.0
Introduced to classical music at a very young age by their father, Dr Narayanan Balasubramanian, a musician himself, Sriram and Ganesh showed a natural inclination towards melody and rhythm. By the age of seven, they began formal training at the Singapore Indian Fine Arts Society (SIFAS) under respected gurus like N R Prashanth, Poorna Rao and Srividya Sriram.
Over the years, they continued their learning under renowned Carnatic vocalist Abhishek Raghuram. Alongside, they also explored Western contemporary music, receiving voice training from Marta Woodhull, which helped them create their distinctive musical identity that beautifully blends Indian ragas with R&B and pop influences.
Their talent was globally recognised when they were featured vocalists in the Grammy-nominated album Shuruaat (2022), produced by Berklee College of Music, which was nominated in the Best Global Music Album category at the 65th Grammy Awards.
Alumni of St. Joseph’s Institution, Singapore, the brothers went on to graduate from Berklee College of Music in Boston, USA, in 2022.
They earned degrees in Music Business & Management with a minor in Creative Entrepreneurship, and were awarded Magna Cum Laude honours for academic and creative excellence. They also received the prestigious Berklee Asia Scholarship.
Currently, The Bala Boys are focusing on music for mindfulness and emotional well-being. Their newly launched album ‘OM AND AFFIRMATIONS’ is a four-track meditative project that brings together powerful ancient mantras and spoken affirmations aimed at calming the nervous system and promoting inner peace.
“Really proud of Sriram and Ganesh for exploring something new and positive with their music!” said their father, Dr Narayanan Balasubramanian, while speaking to Connected to India.
“Seeing my sons, Thebalaboys, shine on a Times Square billboard for their album ‘Om and Affirmations’ with Pandora fills my heart with indescribable pride and joy. Their passion and hard work have lit up one of the world’s brightest stages, and I’m beyond grateful to witness their dreams soar,” the proud parent added.
From traditional concert halls to one of the world’s busiest digital landmarks, The Bala Boys are not just pushing creative boundaries — they are creating a new space where music meets healing, and where tradition meets innovation, for the betterment of all.
