Art & Smile Foundation

Art & Smile began in our home in Phoenix, Arizona, USA. When my son was three years old, I started singing simple shlokas, swaras, and small bhajans for him, hoping to share the music and traditions I loved.

Within minutes of singing together, I noticed his natural sense of pitch. He could sing the saptaswaras with remarkable ease and joy, encouraging me to share more with him.

A few months later, a close friend's son joined us. Two children gradually became three, then four, then five. Those informal gatherings grew into regular sessions filled with music, curiosity, and connection.

Although I had been sharing the basics of music with children since my teenage years, 2013 marked the official beginning of our school.

There was no thought of fees at first. I was working as an IT professional, and sharing music was something I loved. As the classes grew, parents began asking how they could contribute. Their small contributions helped our efforts grow beyond those first informal gatherings.

Around that time, a friend in India brought a young woman's story to my attention. She had completed high school and needed support to pursue an undergraduate degree in engineering. Her story helped give our efforts a broader purpose.

Bringing people together through music while helping others access education.

Over the years, Art & Smile Foundation has contributed more than $100,000 toward the education of 100+ children in India. Our educational support has placed particular emphasis on girls' education. We have also supported Vedic schools and a few temples, extending our commitment to the preservation and sharing of traditional knowledge.

Our musical community has grown through the trust of families, the dedication of teachers and mentors, and the participation of students and audiences. We have been fortunate to work with distinguished musicians and leading artists, as well as teachers within our community.

Working with these maestros opened our eyes to opportunities for students to learn from different musical traditions and styles. With these musicians based across India, we began exploring how online learning could make those connections possible. This led us to introduce online one-on-one music sessions, giving students the opportunity to learn directly from teachers and maestros across India.

Our programs have since expanded to include vocal music, instruments, percussion, and Vedic chanting. As we look ahead, we are exploring other areas, including yoga and opportunities to bring people together through a symposium.

What began with one child has become a community. At its heart is the same wish that started it all: to share what we love, keep our traditions alive, and create opportunities for the next generation.