Born into a family steeped in artistic and musical traditions, Keli Kanana Das—known professionally as Keli Woods—has forged a career that seamlessly blends devotion and creativity. Based in London, Keli is a composer, producer, performer, entrepreneur, and Bhakti educator whose work continues to inspire audiences worldwide.

Keli’s journey into the reality of spirit began during his formative years when the exigency of exploring life’s deeper meanings led him to Krishna Consciousness. He made a bold decision to live as a monk for five years, immersing himself in spiritual practices such as meditation, chanting, and scriptural study in devotional service. Reflecting on this pivotal period, Keli shared, “Those five years changed my life. They gave me the grounding I needed to later explore creativity through a spiritual lens.” This foundation became the bedrock of his music, influencing his style with themes of transcendence and self-discovery.

From Monastic Life to Musical Expression

For Keli, leaving monastic life was not a departure from spirituality but rather an opportunity to express creativity as a form of seva (service). “I see music as a way to serve and connect with people,” he explained, emphasizing that every composition is imbued with a sense of purpose. His time as a monk taught him to channel his emotions and experiences into art, fostering a unique musical style that blends genres such as ambient and world music to harness and share the essence of Bhakti.

This perspective is evident in Keli’s discography, which includes the 2020 album Falling Upwards and singles like Follow My Soul, Bhajahu Re Mana, and Satyam Param. These works explore universal themes of devotion and introspection, resonating deeply with Krishna-conscious listeners and audiences in the world community of seekers alike.

Collaborations and Inspirations

Keli’s work extends beyond his solo projects, as he has collaborated with a host of artists, producing tracks such as Mantra Over Mind by Radhika Das and Anahatta by Phoebe Grant. He approaches each collaboration with conviction, striving to facilitate the artist’s vision while staying true to his spiritual ethos. Speaking about his process, he said, “Music is about more than just sound; it’s about emotion, connection, and the stories we tell.”

Inspiration for his compositions often stems from his own spiritual practices and interactions with fellow artists and audiences. He views music as a bridge between the sacred and the accessible, making profound spiritual truths relatable to all.

Themes and Future Aspirations

Keli’s upcoming projects continue to explore themes of devotion and self-discovery. With several releases planned for 2025, including a new album and collaborations with artists like Jahnavi Harrison and Radhika Das, his work aims to emote universal truths about love, divinity, and purpose. “The goal is always to inspire—to create something that moves people closer to Krishna in whatever way they can relate to,” he explained.

Impact and Legacy

Through his music, Keli has touched the hearts of many, using sound as a transformative force. Albums like Heartland by Radhika Das, on which he was featured, showcase his ability to merge artistry with spiritual depth. Beyond the studio, he continues to teach and mentor aspiring musicians, emphasizing the importance of intention and humility in creative endeavors.

Looking back on his journey, Keli remains grateful for the unique fusion of experiences that have shaped his path. From a monk’s disciplined life to an artist’s creative freedom, he has demonstrated that spirituality and creativity are not mutually exclusive but complementary forces that, when harnessed, can inspire heartfelt change.

As he prepares for the next career phase, Keli Woods remains steadfast in his mission to share Krishna Consciousness through music. His journey is a testament to the transformative power of Bhakti, creativity, and conviction.

To support, explore, and be inspired by Keli Woods’ work, you can connect with him on फेसबुक, Instagram, YouTube, and Spotify..