Underground Authority

Formed in 2010 when the groups! Banned and Skydive merged to form Underground Authority, the foursome creates music with a purpose. Citing musical influencers such as Rage Against the Machine, The Roots and Public Enemy, the members refer to their songs as “protest poetry,” as the lyrics often focus on anti-capitalism, racism, materialism and other hot-button political topics of the time. It’s a big part of the reason why Underground Authority considers its work as “music to express, not impress.” However, judging by its ever-increasing fan base –thanks in part to its national exposure on the second season of “India’s Got Talent” and its victory at the 2013 Hornbill International Rock Contest –it’s safe to say that the band has done its fair share of impressing as well.

Santhanam Srinivasan Iyer is the charismatic singer of the group, who brings energy and stage presence to Underground Authority’s live performances. The band is rounded out by guitarist Adil Rashid, bassist Soumyadeep Bhattacharya and drummer Sourish Kumar. Together, the foursome has wowed audiences at live performances across the country and has even made fans of notable Indian celebrities, such as Nikhil Chinapa and Salman Khan.