In May of 2024, a group of Green Hope High School students came together to perform at the school talent show under the name “INSAAN.” What was supposed to be a one-time performance turned into something more after their victory, leading to the debut of a true band. A year later, they continue to channel their love for music through local gigs and weekly practices.
The band consists of four musicians: guitarist Caitlin Belingon (‘25), bassist Aarush Damarla (‘26), drummer Devdatt Deshmukh (‘24) and lead singer Anam Siddiqi (‘25). Belingon, Deshmukh and Siddiqi knew each other beforehand and later met Damarla through a mutual friend.
According to Belingon, their style is mainly pop, but it may evolve into more of a rock sound if they find an additional guitarist. “In my opinion, if we ended up sounding like Paramore, Green Day or Fall Out Boy, I wouldn’t be complaining,” she said.
Over the last few months, INSAAN became busy rehearsing and performing. On Dec. 7th, they had their first performance outside of Green Hope at a benefit concert for the Khuddar Pakistan charity organization. Although Belingon enjoyed performing, she said it was “definitely a learning experience for all of us” as the group adjusted to being on stage.
Now that they have more performing experience, things have been going smoothly. Their consistent practice schedule makes it easier for them to balance school, the band, and any other activities they may have going on. Each member makes time to practice their individual parts so that during rehearsals they can focus on group parts.
Despite their focus and dedication they still face obstacles. Waiting to receive responses from businesses or event organizers when trying to book gigs is a constant struggle faced by any band. Occasional lack of communication between band members can also make organizing performances and practices complicated at times. However, that is to be expected as members try to balance the band with all of their individual commitments. Nevertheless, INSAAN is continuing to make a name for themselves.
On Jan. 25, the group took to the stage again at Anjappar Chettinad Restaurant in Durham, where they performed a mix of Bollywood hits and pop songs with an acoustic instrumental mix. Belington described their performance as a success. “They’re planning on having us do monthly or even biweekly performances there.”
With gigs starting to pick up, this is just the beginning for INSAAN. Although they plan to continue their education, they also hope to land bigger gigs and to perform original music in the future.
