Goa's DJ Ryan steps on one of EDM's biggest stages

As Goa wakes up to World Music Day, it learns that Goa’s DJ Ryan Nogar has been selected for the most prestigious EDM festival — Ultra Europe — to be held in Croatia (Europe) from July 11 to July 13 this year.

Imagine sharing the same space with Swedish music producer and DJ Adam Beyer, or Dutch DJ and record producer Martin Garrix, or even Afrojack!

DJ Ryan will be doing so next month, a proud moment and a dream come true for Ryan, who gushes as he speaks to Gomantak Times Digital about his entry into one of the biggest electronic music stages in the world.

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As the first Goan to achieve this incredible feat, the Ultra selection isn't just a career milestone, it's a historic moment. How did you feel when you realised you'd been chosen to perform on this  global stage?

I froze! I just stared at the screen for a few seconds trying to process what I was reading. When it finally hit me, I felt this wave of emotion —goosebumps, honestly.

Being the first Goan to play at Ultra is not just a personal win, it’s a win for every dreamer back home who’s ever felt like the odds were too big. I felt proud, humbled and just incredibly thankful.

I called my closest people right after that; there were tears, laughter, everything. It’s a moment I’ll never forget.

DJ Ryan Nogar It puts me on the global map, opens doors to new collaborations and brings my music to an international audience. More than anything, it’s a reminder that no matter where you come from — even a small place like Goa — if you’re passionate and persistent, the world will eventually take notice.

Ultra Europe is one of the world's most prestigious electronic music festivals. What does this performance mean to you personally as well as professionally for your career?

As someone who started DJing in small bars and clubs, to now be performing at Ultra Europe is a full-circle moment. It represents years of hustle, growth and staying true to my sound.

Professionally, it’s a massive step forward. It puts me on the global map, opens doors to new collaborations and brings my music to an international audience.

More than anything, it’s a reminder that no matter where you come from — even a small place like Goa — if you’re passionate and persistent, the world will eventually take notice.

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What sets are you planning to perform at Ultra Europe?

I’m curating a high-energy set that blends deep grooves, driving bass lines and moments of pure euphoria. I want to take the crowd on a journey, not just make them dance, but feel something.

I’m also working on a few exclusive edits and unreleased material that I plan to premiere. It’s important to bring something fresh to a stage like Ultra Europe, something that reflects who I am as an artiste.

There might even be a few surprises — a nod to my roots, or a sound no one’s expecting. I’m putting a lot of intention into every detail, because this isn’t just another set — it’s a statement.

THE CHOSEN ONE: Following a tough selection process, DJ Ryan Nogar will be performing at Ultra Europe, in Croatia from July 11 to July 13.

Do you feel the pressure to represent the State on such a global stage, which will also feature other international artistes?

Definitely, there’s a sense of pressure, but in the best way possible. Representing Goa on such a massive global stage isn’t just about me; it’s about showcasing the talent, culture and passion that exists back home.

Goa has a deep-rooted connection with music, especially electronic music, and I carry that legacy with pride. Of course, sharing the stage with international heavyweights can feel intimidating, but I remind myself why I’m there — I’ve earned it!

The goal is to stay authentic, deliver my best, and make sure people leave knowing that an artiste from Goa brought the energy and vibe to Ultra Europe.

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How has the electronic music industry changed since you first started, and how have you adapted to the changes?

When I started, the electronic music scene was more niche — fewer platforms, smaller audiences and very community-driven. Over the years, it’s exploded into a massive global movement, powered by technology, festivals and digital platforms.

The way music is now produced, released and discovered has completely changed.

I’ve evolved by constantly upgrading my sound, staying updated with trends and expanding my presence beyond just live gigs through music production, online content and strategic collaborations.

It’s been about staying relevant without losing authenticity. Adapting hasn’t been easy, but it’s been exciting, and I think that willingness to grow is what’s kept me moving forward in this ever-changing industry.

DJ Ryan NogarSharing the stage with international heavyweights can feel intimidating, but I remind myself why I’m there — I’ve earned it! The goal is to stay authentic, deliver my best, and make sure people leave knowing that an artiste from Goa brought the energy and vibe to Ultra Europe.

Finally, what was the journey to Ultra Europe like? Can you give us an insider's view into the selection process?

The selection process is extremely competitive and largely driven by industry credibility, performancehistoryand the buzz an artiste is creating. In my case, it was a mix of everything aligning — years of consistent work, strong support from my team, and a lot of belief in the music I’ve been putting out.

We submitted my profile, press kit, live sets and recent highlights through the right channels. From there, it went through the internal curation team at Ultra who evaluate from your global reach and crowd engagement to the uniqueness of your sound.

When I got the confirmation, it felt like all those long nights and sacrifices finally had a purpose.