Bass player and composer Mohini Dey says she may have a modern outlook, but her Indian roots are an important part of her identity. Despite living in Los Angeles, the musician continues to enjoy traditional Bengali food at home.
In a conversation with Manogya Loiwal on the sidelines of the NDTV World Summit 2026, Mohini was asked what she takes with her from India wherever she goes in the world.
Responding to the question, the musician said, “My aura, because I’m different and I’m aware of it. I look modern on the outside, but on the inside, I’m Indian. I’m a Bengali girl.”
Mohini also opened up about her love for Bengali food, revealing that her eating habits haven’t changed despite living abroad.
“At home, I eat machar jhol, mutton kosha, rice and dal. I live in Los Angeles, but I still eat all these dishes at home,” she said.
29-year-old Mohini was accompanied by her mother at the event. He opened the top with a song he wrote as a child before taking to the stage with his band to cover some of his most popular tracks, including The Day Way.
Speaking about her move to the US, the bassist said she wanted to explore opportunities outside India after taking advice from those around her.
“I moved to America because people told me that I needed to explore the world. I have played with many artistes, like AR Rahman and Salim-Sulaiman. Now, I have been touring with my world tour for the last three years,” she said.
He also urged the audience to continue supporting independent artists. “Please continue to support independent musicians,” he said.
Mohini Day’s journey from Mumbai to the international music scene
Mohini’s involvement with music started early in life. Her father, who worked as a session musician, started instilling her interest in the instrument before she was three years old. The family was struggling financially when she was born, but her father continued to encourage her musical abilities.
She got her first bass guitar at the age of nine and started performing when she was 11. His talent caught the attention of Ranjit Barot, a friend of his father’s, who took him on tour with his band. He also received mentorship from jazz musician Louis Banks.
Over the years, Mohini has worked with many leading names across genres. Among his collaborations are A.R. Rehman, Salim-Sulaiman, Steve Vai, Marco Minnemann, Dream Theater’s Jordan Rudes, Jason Richardson, Deva Budjana, Zakir Hussain, Sivamani, Greg Howe and Willow Smith.
In August 2023, he released his self-titled debut album. He is also part of Gaan Bangla’s Wind of Change and Coke Studio India, and A.R. Has performed with Rahman. In 2024, he was invited to join Willow Smith’s new band.
Mohini is also involved with MaMoGi, a band featuring her ex-husband, Mark Hartsch, and drummer Geno Banks.
Also Read: Bassist Mohini Dey at NDTV World Summit 2026: ‘Fortunate to be born in India where mosques-temples co-exist’