In Hindi, ‘Jungli’ means wild, raw, unruly, in one’s primal state; of or pertaining to the jungle. This description is reflected in Tasneem Nanji’s music group JUNGLI, a fusion of alternative rock, hip hop, rap and well-crafted lyrics. JUNGLI has performed at many of New York’s diverse venues including Carnegie Hall, The Knitting Factory, CBGB’s and Basement Bhangra. The charismatic singer and songwriter Nanji has been featured on MTV’s Total Request Live MC Battle and in indie film Cubamor. An up and coming musical icon, Nanji’s unique sound blended with a high energy stage show is one not to be missed.

Why the name ‘Jungli’?
I named the band Jungli because it was a nickname that my mum used to give me when I would cause trouble which honestly was quite a bit. I liked the idea of using a hindi or gujurati word to describe what the music meant to me, something uninhibited, wild and free and for me that’s one word -JUNGLI.

What inspires you?
I am inspired by everything and everyone. Life love & art.

Who is your favorite music icon?
I can’t just choose one but lately I’ve been really into finding out more about the life of Freddie Mercury. His 60th birthday just passed and I was intrigued by his native country of Zanzibar and how they subtly rejected him as an icon, so I thought let me see what this man and his music was all about.

What do you do to earn and blow money?
If I tell you, I'll have to kill you....and then we can’t finish the interview.

How do you indulge your decadent side?
I go shopping and buy expensive clothing and eat vegan cheesecake with my bass player. Then I practice lots of yoga so I will no longer have the need to indulge my decadent side.

Who are your heroines?
Every woman in my family tree.

What cocktail best describes your personality?
Water with lemon. Because there are two sides of me - there is a pure artist, functional and calm, and there is this other side that most people see, the side that has bite, flavor and flair.

What do you think is the key to success in life?
I think success in life comes to those that choose to live in truth, it is only in that truth can one find freedom and in that freedom everything you want will eventually fall at your feet.

In a sentence, name one thing about yourself that is true.
I am jungli therefore I am free.

JUNGLI will perform at Joe’s Pub in New York City on Sept. 26, 2006, 9:30 p.m.

Visit www.myspace.com/jungli for updates, upcoming shows and music downloads.

Band website www.junglimusic.com