DHANYA RAMKUMAR, age 15, has been playing the Veena, a traditional Indian Instrument, since the age of 7. Her passion for music deepened with her exposure to Western music in middle school, inspiring her to explore the Veena’s potential beyond its classical roots. The overwhelmingly positive response she has gotten when taking to the stage in front of smaller audiences has fueled her inquisitive nature to further explore the instrument’s possibilities. 

The Saraswati Veena, crafted from jack wood, is a South Indian classical instrument with a history tracing back to approximately 1700 BCE!  It is revered for its ability to emulate the nuances of vocal music and its shape is often likened to that of the human spine. 

Dhanya’s participation in her middle and high school choirs has broadened her musical horizons, sparking a desire to create fusions of traditional Indian melodies with Western musical elements on the Veena. Her family supports her aspirations, especially her mother, who pushes her to give her best in all her endeavors! Her very first journey as a competitor started with the HGT! Auditions this past fall. She is thrilled to see how she can combine her talent and creativity to connect with the audience at the HGT! Season 3 Finale.