WATCH: Hindu devotional artist Deshan Styler Naidoo bridges faiths with Urdu Ramadaan tribute

DURBAN-born Hindu devotional artist Deshan Styler Naidoo has touched hearts across faith communities by releasing a special Urdu song for Ramadaan.

Firmly rooted in his own faith tradition, Naidoo explained why music transcended religious boundaries and served as a universal language of devotion.

The gesture has been met with widespread appreciation by his fans.

Naidoo, known for his deeply spiritual Hindu devotional music, stepped beyond linguistic and cultural boundaries this Ramadaan by singing in Urdu as a gesture of respect and unity toward the Muslim community.

“For me, devotion is surrender of the ego and ultimate connection to the Divine. These labels help us identify traditions, but the experience of devotion goes way beyond labels. Whether one says Shiva, Allah, Jesus or any other sacred name, the essence is love, humility and remembrance of God,” said Naidoo. 

Rooted firmly in Hindu philosophy, Naidoo explained that his understanding of spirituality had always transcended religious identity.

“I was raised to see divinity in all paths. Music also taught me this, so devotion to me is about purity of heart more than identity. Music is universal. Sound itself is sacred. In the Hindu philosophy, we speak of ‘Nada Brahma,’ which simply means the universe is sound. Similarly, in Islamic tradition, recitation and praise are powerful spiritual expressions. Music carries emotion beyond language. It belongs to humanity, not to one religion.”

While Naidoo is widely recognised for his bhajans and Hindu devotional offerings, he said the transition to performing an Islamic naath felt spiritually natural.

“The language changes, but the intention remains the same. When I sing a devotional bhajan or a naath, I enter the same devotional space. Urdu has a beautiful poetic depth, especially in praising the Prophet (Peace Be Upon Him). So yes, it feels culturally different, but spiritually it feels aligned because the intention is devotion, and it is pure.”

Growing up in multicultural South Africa played a significant role in shaping his inclusive outlook.

“Living in South Africa, I grew up in a multicultural environment. Almost all my supporters know I am crazy about music and I am always exploring different genres, aspects of music and cultures. I have many Muslim music associates and a huge number of Stylerz globally." 

Naidoo revealed that his appreciation for Islamic devotional poetry developed gradually over time.

“Ramadan is a sacred month, and I felt moved to contribute in the only way I know how, through music. If my voice can build even a small bridge, I am grateful. But I honestly do not approach it as politics or interfaith activism. I approach it as pure devotion. If people see unity through my music, then I believe that is God’s work, not mine.”

The artist believes musicians carry a responsibility in divided times.

“Most definitely, artists influence hearts. When society becomes divided, art can either fuel division or promote understanding. I believe we must choose responsibility, not in a forced way, but by staying rooted in truth and love. I am always encouraging the term ‘One Love'.”

Addressing any potential criticism, Naidoo emphasised that his intention was not to blur religious boundaries but to express sincere reverence.

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