PERSONALITY
A musical vision
RAJEEV BHATT
Anup Jalota ...
THE intricacies and nuances of Classical Indian music came alive in Kingston City Hall, Melbourne (Australia) on August 22, where famous singer Anup Jalota belted out his favourite bhajans and film songs.
He promised to make it an interesting evening and the audience were in a trance, revelling in the music of India.
Born in Nainital and now a resident of "Amchi Mumbai", Jalota kept the audience spellbound with his deep voice that reached high tones with songs like "Mann me ram, tan me ram" , "Laagi Lagan" and other such numbers.
But the runaway hits were definitely "Dama Dam Mast Kalandar" and "Inhi logon ne", which prompted many youngsters to run onto the stage, only to be dragged down by the security.
Jalota is also known as the "Bhajan Samraat". He was the one who initiated a unique cultural renaissance of bhajans in India.
Accompanying Jalota in Melbourne were Syed Yamarsah and Sumeet Tappoo, his Sydney-based students. Such is their dedication to music that these 20-year-old's travel to India every six months to train under Jalota. After the concert, the singer gave AJAY REDDY an exclusive interview.
Your view on excessive rap infusions in classical music?
AS long as there is no vulgarity, it's okay. When it gets vulgar, I do not like it because these bhajans and ghazals are ancient and deserve more respect.
Was it hard to enter the music industry?
It was never hard for me, it was a smooth entry.
The hardest phase of your career?
I would like to think I never had one. Thinking back, I honestly didn't find any phase of my career hard, thanks to all those who appreciated my music.
What's your vision?
I wish to continue learning and to spread the message of love through my music.
I also wish to guide one towards spiritual growth, which I think is important.
Have you ever used your celebrity status to focus on social causes?
That's something no one has asked me before. I have tried to increase people's awareness on many pressing issues in India. However, I leave that to the government as they are in a better position to implement. But my prayers are with all the deprived.
If you could change one thing in the past, what would it be and why?
If I could undo something in the past, it would definitely be my growing into a professional. I would rather remain a student of music, as those were the most fulfilling years of my life.
How do you balance your personal and professional life?
I make sure I spend quality time with my family.
"Chaudvin ka chand" is a great song to win back an angry wife, has that trick worked for you?
Oh yes! (Laughs)
Your inspiration?
My father, Purushottam Das Jalota. He was a simple man, who entertained the community.
Apart from music, what else?
I like keeping abreast of current affairs, reading and watching movies.
What future do you see for your students?
I wish them the very best, and if I can influence them or guide them to continue singing no matter what, I would have achieved a great deal emotionally and morally.
Message to aspiring singers?
Always practice, observe and be calm and composed. Success is never far away.
Printer friendly
page
Send this article to Friends by
E-Mail
Magazine
