Jazz Guitarist Pritesh Walia Detained By ICE In California

Photo: Instagram

India-West News Desk

LOS ANGELES, CA – Reports not immediately verifiable say Indian-born jazz guitarist and composer Pritesh Walia was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement on August 2 after returning to Los Angeles.

A statement posted on his Instagram account reads, “This is Liza. I’m currently managing Pritesh’s account on his behalf. On Sunday night, August 2, after we returned to Los Angeles, Pritesh was unexpectedly detained by ICE and taken into custody.”

Walia was subsequently transferred to the Adelanto ICE Processing Center. His personal belongings, including his mobile phone, were confiscated and he currently has no access to them, according to the statement.

ICE has not made a statement and neither is Walia’s immigration status at the time of his detention clear.

Walia was born in India and came to the United States for higher education. He earned an associate degree from Musicians Institute in Los Angeles, a bachelor’s degree from Berklee College of Music and a master’s degree from the New England Conservatory.

His detention comes just days after the July 31 release of his latest studio project, ‘Journey to Nowhere,’ recorded with the Henry Godfrey Jazz Orchestra. The album features a 27-piece ensemble and guest musicians including pianist Aaron Parks and saxophonists Jerry Bergonzi and Godwin Louis.

Walia’s professional career had previously been interrupted by a serious health crisis. According to a GoFundMe campaign launched by friends in 2023, he received an artist visa, commonly referring to an O-1B visa, but about a month later was forced to stop performing and teaching after developing debilitating health problems.

He was diagnosed with Persistent Postural Perceptual Dizziness, Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension and chronic vestibular migraines. The conditions affected his vision and balance and prevented him from carrying out normal daily and professional activities.

After medical treatment and extensive vestibular rehabilitation, Walia returned to performing and composing.

The lack of an official explanation for his detention has led to speculation online about his immigration status, including whether his visa may have expired. There is, however, no public confirmation that this was the reason for his detention.

A person identifying himself on Reddit as Walia’s cousin appealed for support and prayers for his safety and release, saying the family was grateful to those who had offered their support.