Kunal Ganjawala, a name that resonates with both spirituality and music, has a story that weaves together his deep faith and his unexpected journey into the world of singing. In this interview with Jay-Ho! The Jay Kumar Show, Kunal shares insights into his personal life, his spiritual experiences, and how music became an integral part of his existence.
Kunal Ganjawala’s Divine Union and Spiritual Blessings
Kunal Ganjawala‘s faith journey began over three decades ago when he, along with his family, became devout followers of Sai Baba. His faith was solidified in a deeply moving ceremony where Sai Baba himself performed his wedding.
This spiritual connection was further deepened in 2008 when Kunal and his wife were spiritually married again in a divine ceremony. The event was marked by a miraculous occurrence where sacred ash, or Vibhuti, began to appear from the photographs of various deities in their temple. “It was as if the whole altar was covered in Vibhuti,” Kunal remembers. “It was a powerful affirmation of our faith.”
The Music of Faith
Music has played a significant role in Kunal’s life, not just as a form of artistic expression but as a way to deepen his spiritual connection. In 2001, Kunal released his first album titled Faith, which was dedicated to Sai Baba and was launched on Guru Poornima Day. This was followed by a double CD album in 2014-15, titled Prem Sagai. This album featured classic bhajans from the ashram presented in a modern format to appeal to younger audiences.
“Music has always been a way for me to express my devotion,” Kunal explains. “With our albums, we aimed to bring the timeless message of bhajans to a new generation, blending tradition with a contemporary touch.”
The Essence of Spiritual Beliefs
Kunal’s spiritual beliefs are deeply rooted in the concept of a universal divine presence. He reflects on how different religions perceive God. “In Sanatan Dharma, we believe in both the manifest and the formless aspects of God,” he explains. “While some religions see God as formless and omnipresent, we also recognize the importance of physical manifestations to help us connect spiritually.”
Kunal emphasizes that the essence of spirituality is not confined to any single form or ritual. “What hurts me is when people kill in the name of God,” he says. “Faith should unite us, not divide us. The divine presence is everywhere, and it’s important to understand that God manifests in various forms to connect with people across different cultures and beliefs.”
From Cricket to Singing: A Surprising Turn
Kunal’s entry into the world of music was as unexpected as it was serendipitous. Growing up, he had a passion for sports, particularly cricket. His journey into singing began somewhat by accident during his college years. “I always loved sports and had no idea I could sing,” Kunal shares. “One day, during a rehearsal at acting school, I was whistling a tune, and my seniors encouraged me to sing.”
Despite his initial reluctance, Kunal’s singing talent quickly became apparent. “They pushed me to sing, and to my surprise, they loved it,” he recalls. This unexpected revelation led him to perform at various college events, setting the stage for his future in music.
The Crossroads of Faith and Music
Kunal’s career in music, while unexpected, has been a profound journey of self-discovery and expression. His faith continues to be a guiding force, influencing both his personal and professional life. “Music and spirituality are intertwined in my life,” he says. “My faith in Sai Baba and the divine has shaped my approach to music and helped me stay grounded.”
Today, Kunal resides in Sai Baba’s ashram, a place of tranquility and spiritual reflection. “I’ve come here for Diwali, and it’s a special time for me to connect with my spiritual roots,” he explains. The ashram is not just a place of worship but a home for Kunal and his family, with several apartments that reflect their deep bond with the divine.
Reflections on Faith and Music
Kunal’s journey is a testament to the power of faith and the unexpected paths life can take. From a divine wedding to a musical career, his story is one of deep spirituality and personal growth. “Faith has always been a guiding light in my life,” he says. “It has shaped my music and helped me understand the true essence of spirituality.”
As he looks back on his life, Kunal reflects on the profound impact of his experiences. “Whether it’s through music or spiritual practice, the essence of my journey has been about connecting with something greater than myself,” he concludes. “And that connection has brought me immense joy and fulfillment.”
Kunal Ganjawala’s life is a beautiful blend of faith, music, and spirituality. His story serves as an inspiration to many, demonstrating how a deep sense of devotion can lead to extraordinary and unexpected journeys.
