Shiv Shuffler has become an icon in the Bollywood music scene.
Image: Supplied
In the heart of Durban, a dynamic young man has emerged as a beacon of creativity and ambition, transforming his dreams into a reality that resonates beyond the shores of South Africa.
Shiv Ramsander, popularly known as Shiv Shuffler, has become an icon in the Bollywood music scene, combining his love for traditional beats with modern flair to create a performance experience like no other.
Born in the charming town of Kinross, Mpumalanga, this ambitious young man has transformed his early passions into a flourishing career as a Bollywood DJ and performer. Now residing in the lively coastal area of Treasure Beach in Bluff, Durban, Shuffler’s journey embodies the essence of hard work, resilience, and an uncanny ability to seize opportunities.
"The city life was exhilarating," he recalls, "and it sparked a passion in me that has never faded."
Shuffler’s love affair with music began at the tender age of three when he received his first tabla set, courtesy of his father who nurtured his talent from the start. The family ambiance, replete with musical influences - his grandfather was a band player, and his father’s family consisted of Bollywood musicians - propelled him into the realm of sound long before he considered a career in DJing.
Shiv Shuffler has become an icon in the Bollywood music scene.
Image: Supplied
“Djing came to me at 19, fresh out of high school, as I was looking for a fun way to earn some money,” he recalls. With a handful of contacts he developed during his teenage years as a dancer and model, Shuffler landed his first gig at a local nightclub.
His mother’s early investment in his future empowered him to acquire his first DJ equipment, marking the commencement of a promising journey. In his initial years, Shuffler created waves in the Durban scene as he performed at a string of popular events, even supporting international artists. However, the pull of academia saw him momentarily shift focus as he pursued mechanical engineering. Six years later, accidentally, he was reintroduced to the DJ scene - not just any DJ, but one with a unique Bollywood flavour.
“The style of Bollywood DJing with live drummers, known as dhol players, was trending worldwide, and I had the perfect foundation,” Shuffler explains. Combining his skills as a DJ and a seasoned dhol player, he crafted an electrifying act that caused a stir - “Shiv Shuffler and the Dhol Army” was born. The fusion of high-energy beats and live music saw him rapidly ascend to become South Africa's leading Bollywood DJ.
Shuffler’s performances are an immersive experience. “I don't like to make people dance; I like to make them jump,” he passionately states, highlighting the infectious energy he brings to the dance floor. His trajectory was illuminated by memorable highlights, including opening for renowned artists like Atif Aslam and Vidya Vox at prominent venues like the Durban ICC and Suncoast Globe.
Shiv Ramsander's modelling career burgeoned post-school, with Shuffler discovering a hidden talent that allowed him to express his identity without words.
Image: Suppled
His modelling career burgeoned post-school, with Shuffler discovering a hidden talent that allowed him to express his identity without words - by walking the runway and striking a pose. His modelling journey led him through competitions, earning him acclaim and bringing him closer to various facets of the entertainment industry. In 2017, he competed in Mr India South Africa, finishing as the runner-up, which opened doors for him to represent SA at an international level.
As Shuffler continues to carve his niche in the music and entertainment industry, he has set his sights on broader horizons. With a drive to expand his brand internationally, plans for DJ production, and crafting festivals aimed at uniting the Durban community are already underway. His upcoming event on March 14 promises to be Durban’s biggest Holi festival yet and demonstrates his commitment to bringing cultural vibrancy to the city.
“As South Africa's Bollywood golden boy, everything I’ve endeavoured has blossomed,” Shuffler reflects. The founder of a full-service production company, he is already well-established in the events sector and has proven his ability to attract large crowds, as seen with his Navaratri festival, which drew 6,000 attendees over nine days.
“I aim to become internationally recognised while celebrating the rich tapestry of my roots,” he affirms with resolve. With a vision fueled by passion and an indomitable spirit, Shuffler continues to evolve and uplift the communities around him, positioning himself as a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring artists in Mzansi.