Bass player and composer Mohini Dey spoke about her decision to move to the US, her musical journey and her relationship with India at the NDTV World Summit 2026 in New Delhi on Thursday, October 22.

The musician, who performed as part of the opening act on the first day of the two-day convention, also urged the audience to support independent musicians.

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 Dey says she is ‘lucky to be born in India’

Despite bringing her music to an international audience, Mohini says India remains central to her identity as an artist. Born and raised in Mumbai, she spoke about the country’s cultural diversity and the values ​​she instilled in her upbringing.

“I am lucky to be born in India where we have many different cultures… we have mosques and temples coexisting. We don’t judge, we respect each other,” he said at the NDTV World Summit 2026.

Reflecting the influence of his hometown, he described his music as an expression of his roots.

“My music is a representation of my foundation, which is Mumbai, India”, he added.

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.