“rhythm grabbed hold of me and has never let me go..”

Tej became obsessed with rhythm since before he can remember. “My parents often recount how I would always want to play the tabla everywhere I saw it, and would cause a real scene if I was pulled away from the drums..”

The tabla, a magnificent hand drum of Indian origin, was Tej’s gateway into music, and he began his formal training in north Indian rhythm at 7 years of age. Early on, his talent was recognized and he was recruited into one of Toronto’s most seminal world music bands, “The Toronto Tabla Ensemble” where upon he was thrust into the vibrant world music scene of the time; recording, touring, and playing with some of Canada’s most respected musicians. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to have grown up playing with and learning from some of the finest musicians in this country.”

By high school, the popular music of the era began to inspire and Dj culture came calling. “I became obsessed with the art of turntablism and beat matching. I bought some starter Dj equipment the first chance I got and I would take the subway down to record shops in the city and spend hours listening. I still remember the first records I bought.”

Soon Tej was Dj’ing at local house parties and school dances, honing the craft, while still studying tabla and performing with various projects and bands.

After a Juno nomination in 1999 with the Ensemble, and a cross Canada tour with Canadian rockers “The Tea Party”, Tej took some time off to focus on building a home studio and composing original music. He has since earned composing credits for network television and independent films, including Canadian film director Richie Mehta’s first independent film, Anamika.

Tej’s passion for live drumming and electronic music united in 2001 when he became a member of the iDRUM Collective, and was able to bring live drums and percussion to the dance floors of Toronto’s most popular night clubs and lounges.

Tej’s career went international in 2008 when he was chosen for the role of principal percussionist in the “India Circus” designed by Franco Dragone of Cirque du Soleil. The circus toured throughout Germany to sold out audiences.

Currently, Tej resides in Toronto and continues to compose original music and perform with Toronto’s most influential Dj’s and performers, while continuing to bring his blend of global, lush, rhythm heavy beats to dance floors locally and around the world.

Thanks to @4eign_langauage and @edHanley27 for the photographs.