Uriel Martinez was born in El Paso, TX and moved to Las Cruces to attend New Mexico State University where he studies plant science. Uriel was raised in a home where Catholicism, traditional Mexican beliefs, and Eastern philosophies coexisted. His mom, a therapist and healer, introduced him to spirituality and mysticism early on, fostering a deep respect for the subtler aspects of life. Along with carrying spiritual and esoteric practices in his blood, he walks with a Moon Dance elder and belongs to medicine circles, where he continues to learn and grow. He also offers therapeutic tarot and spiritual consultations, using a multidisciplinary approach to support people in their healing process.

Uriel is bilingual speaking both Spanish and English. He also is continuing to learn Sanskrit, which is used in both mantras and kirtan. A self taught harmonium player, Uriel leads the Las Cruces Kirtan group as the wallah. He views kirtan as an open canvas. One that provides a strong foundation rooted in traditional Hindu spiritual practice, as faithfully as possible, while allowing participants to engage in their own way. The kirtan group was started from a yearning for authentic, loving spaces where people can gather and freely commune with themselves and with a higher power. Whether someone approaches it secularly or spiritually, psychologically or energetically, the space remains open to people from diverse backgrounds and beliefs. This principle remains a core value that shapes all of his work.