Kayaka (‘work’) is an ensemble that came together in 2024 to musically reimagine 12th-century Indian poetry from the Bhakti Movement, and bring it into a contemporary frame.

Led by Pallavi MD, one of the foremost exponents of Sugama Sangeetha, Bhaavageethe, Vachana Sangeeta and Hindustani Vocal in the city; and Bruce Lee Mani, frontman of acclaimed Bangalore band ‘Thermal And A Quarter’ (TAAQ), Kayak seamlessly blends ancient yet progressive poetry with modern, progressive yet accessible music. Expect tight arrangements and free form improvisations; storytelling compositions; hard-hitting socially relevant lyrics and a captivating live performance.