In a world where young people often feel torn between passion and responsibility, 17-year-old Avishaan Kash Chand is proof that with purpose and discipline, it’s possible to embrace both worlds with relative ease.
A gifted devotional singer, national football representative and deputy head boy of Vunimono High School, Avishaan is more than just a high-achieving teenager — he is a symbol of commitment, culture and compassion.
Hailing from Manoca in Nausori, the humble teenager is making an extraordinary impact, not only on the field and stage but also in the lives of those he touches through his music and service.
Avishaan’s musical journey began at just six years old, singing kirtan and lokgeet beside his father at community events. Today, he is a prominent vocalist with the Maharuti Satsang Bhakti Boys, performing at Ramayan recitations, Devi and Shiv pooja and funerals (antim sanskar) across the country.
“Kirtan is not just melody, it’s my prayer, my grounding and my way of keeping Fiji’s Sanatan Dharma alive,” he shares.
Music runs deep in his bloodline. His great-grandfather Budh Ram Pujari, a respected priest in Valelevu, Nasinu, laid the foundation. His grandfather, the late Ami Chand Lala, was a beloved bhajan singer.
Today, his father Avikash Chand and uncle Rajneel Chand continue this sacred legacy by composing original devotional songs, which Avishaan proudly brings to life.
“Singing is in our blood. It’s not something we were pushed into — it’s something we were born into,” he reflects.
More than just a devotional artist, Avishaan sings for a cause. Over the years, he has bravely taken the stage to help those in need.
At 14, he joined fellow youth singer Nishaal Prasad to raise funds for a family in Baulevu who lost everything in a house fire.
A year later, he sang to support his young cousin battling cancer, helping cover the cost of urgent overseas treatment.
In May this year, he hosted an emotional concert to raise funds for his father’s cardiac surgery.
“It’s not about applause or likes — it’s about doing what’s right when people are hurting. If my voice can bring hope, I’ll never stop singing.”
Avishaan’s story doesn’t end with music, he is also a rising star in Fijian football.
He captained the Fiji U15 team at the OFC Development Tournament in New Zealand, showcasing leadership beyond his years. His hard work and passion later earned him a place in the Fiji National U16 team, which created history by qualifying for the FIFA U17 World Cup — a milestone he calls “a dream come true”.
Whether it’s leading team prayers before matches or commanding the midfield with poise, Avishaan plays the game with the same values that define him: discipline, humility and service.
“Football teaches me teamwork. Singing teaches me devotion. Both teach me focus.”
As deputy headboy, Avishaan understands the challenge of balancing academics, leadership, music and sports. He credits his achievements to time management, inner discipline, and above all, the unwavering support of his family.
“My parents never told me to choose between school and singing. They guided me in both.”
He also advocates for families to nurture cultural and devotional talents in children — especially at a time when traditional arts are fading.
“We need more youth who can sing kirtan, play harmonium or dholak, and keep our bhakti tradition alive.
“When we preserve the music, we preserve our identity.”
Avishaan plays the dholak and other traditional instruments, deepening his connection to his spiritual craft.
With dreams of pursuing higher education, advancing his football career and one day leading international bhajan programs, Avishaan remains grounded in the values passed down through generations.
“This journey is not just about where I’m going —– it’s about who I’m taking with me: my family, my faith and my Fiji.”
Behind the scenes, his greatest inspiration is his only sister, Avishna, and his mother Sandhiya, whose support fuels his journey every step of the way.
And to young people across Fiji, Avishaan offers a heartfelt message:
“Stay away from drugs, stay disciplined and always listen to your elders.
“Never let your talent make you arrogant. Stay grounded, stay grateful and use your gifts to serve others.”
In Avishaan, Fiji has not only a rising star, but a shining example of what it means to lead with talent, humility, and heritage.