BLR Airport unveils “Rhythm of BLR”: A sonic identity inspired by its home city

Crafted from the BLR Anthem composed by three-time Grammy® Award-winner Padma Shri Ricky Kej, the sonic identity enriches the brand with a distinctive sensory dimension
Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VF6kI5syzoU

Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (BLR Airport) has unveiled its signature sonic identity — Rhythm of BLR. Developed in collaboration with sonic branding experts BrandMusiq, this unique musical expression is a central part of the Feels Like BLR campaign envisioned to transform the airport from a transit point into a space that truly connects with people.

Music has the power to create deep emotional connections and instant recognition. Rhythm of BLR is designed to evoke a sense of warmth, familiarity, and emotional resonance — capturing the joy of new beginnings, the comfort of homecomings, and the spirit of Bengaluru itself. 

Rooted in the melodic framework of the BLR Airport Anthem, composed by Grammy® Award-winning artist Padma Shri Ricky Kej, Rhythm of BLR is a multisensory narrative that blends tradition with global influences. Drawing from Carnatic sounds like the mandolin and mridangam, and harmonised with Western acoustic and electric guitars, piano, and a vibrant sing-along chorus, the identity becomes a rich jugalbandi of heritage and modernity.

Hari Marar, Managing Director & CEO, Bangalore International Airport Ltd (BIAL), added, “Every journey begins and ends with emotions. At BLR Airport, we’ve always believed that travel should connect not just places, but people, feelings, and memories. Rhythm of BLR is an extension of that belief — a sonic expression of Bengaluru’s spirit that welcomes you, comforts you, and stays with you long after you’ve left the airport. For us, this isn’t just a sound, rather a part of our identity, a reminder that you’re home, or on your way to something special.”

“A powerful sonic identity starts with emotional clarity,” said Rajeev Raja, Founder & Soundsmith, BrandMusiq. The identity was shaped through a thoughtful, three-stage creative process, beginning with a deep-dive into the airport’s brand personality. Guided by Indian emotional frameworks such as the Navarasas, and the brand’s own narrative of transformation and magic, we worked to translate the brand’s purpose and personality into a soundscape that expresses Shringara (warmth), Veera (inspiration) and Hasya (delight), central to the BLR Airport experience. The result is a ‘Mogo’ — a musical logo — that becomes the airport’s audible soul.”

Shalini Rao, Chief Marketing Officer, Bangalore International Airport Ltd, “Airports are often places where emotions run high — reunions, farewells, first steps and last looks. With Rhythm of BLR, we wanted to weave a familiar thread through those moments. It’s more than a sonic identity; it’s a sensory anchor that makes every traveller feel seen, grounded, and connected to Bengaluru, no matter where they’re headed.  Just like a signature fragrance or a favourite tune, we hope it becomes part of every passenger’s memory of BLR Airport, something they carry with them, wherever they go.”

From launching the BLR Anthem to curated art spaces and a signature fragrance, every element has been thoughtfully crafted to reflect the spirit of Bengaluru. With the introduction of a sonic identity, the airport continues to reimagine travel as a multi-sensory experience, where each touchpoint becomes a moment of belonging. As the signature tune of Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru, Rhythm of BLR plays at key ear points (audio), we hope it serves as a familiar tune, one that welcomes, comforts, and lingers long after the journey ends.