At just 10 years old, Aaniya Victoria Carlton has already made a significant mark in the world of music. On October 11, she took the stage at Divali Nagar in Chaguanas, Trinidad, delivering a mesmerizing performance that honored Lord Shiva. Singing traditional hymns such as Shri Rudram Namakam and Jai Jai Shiva Shambo, Aaniya captivated the audience alongside the ISHA Organisation’s Kirtan Aachaaryas. Her rendition of Jagat Bam Bam Bam Bhola further showcased her talent and dedication to her craft. Aaniya, a fourth-grade student at Montrose Government Primary School, attributes her love for music to her natural passion and the encouragement she receives from her teacher, Vijay Rajballie, who makes learning enjoyable. Aaniya’s musical journey began at a young age, with her first song being Happy Birthday, which she sang so often that she became the family’s official birthday singer. Her mother, Anita Singh, recognized her daughter’s gift and enrolled her in Vanessa Briggs’ Vocademy during the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020. Since then, Aaniya has mastered various musical styles, including jazz, pop, reggae, country, and classical Indian music. Her breakthrough came in 2022 when a video of her singing caught the attention of pundit Krishen Ramdeen, the spiritual leader of ISHA Organisation Trinidad. Ramdeen invited Aaniya to join the ISHA Kirtan Aachaaryas, marking the beginning of her professional musical journey. Aaniya has since performed at significant events, including ‘Namaste Modi’ during the Indian Prime Minister’s visit to Trinidad and various recitals with the Vocademy. Despite her young age, Aaniya has learned valuable life lessons through her performances, such as time management, patience, and teamwork. She credits her mother as her biggest supporter and inspiration, calling her ‘the drill master’ for her meticulous attention to detail. Aaniya’s ultimate dream is to travel the world and record music at iconic studios like Abbey Road in London or The Studio at The Palms in Las Vegas. She has already recorded several songs, including a country-styled Christmas track and devotional pieces for ISHA. Aaniya’s message for Trinidad and Tobago this Divali is one of hope and prosperity, wishing everyone peace and joy.