Do you think that you have made a name for yourself in the industry or are you still known as your father’s son? People know of the 20 albums I have done, which were hits. I am also famous for my album Piya Bavari. No one else has come up with albums that have a touch of classical music and fusion sounds. I have also worked in Bollywood, on the movie Boom. Every director in the industry knows me. I don’t believe in approaching anybody for work. I have seen newcomers do it to get their break in Bollywood but I will never do it because I have been in this business since 2002. I am a fusion artist and I work on my own terms.
But Bollywood is a place where a lot of money and recognition can be gained. As a musician, doesn’t that attract you?
I understand that for some people, money and fame is very important. But for me, my work speaks for itself. When I do a show, I see thousands of people of all ages coming to watch me. Being commercial doesn’t necessarily mean better. I know of music directors who are commercial, only earning money, but they don’t warrant any respect as they copy all their tunes.
I am a success in my own right. I have money, own costly cars and stay in five star hotels. I have roamed the world and people know and respect me internationally. When I perform at a show, there can be up to a 15,000-strong audience. And this is not just abroad. What’s more, there is immense respect in classical music; it has quality, ethics and purity. As a classical and fusion artist, the enjoyment I feel while performing live can never be matched by any amount of money or fame.
Do you think that classical music is more appreciated outside India?
No, I don’t think so. I have performed many a times in India and know that the audience here too enjoys music. Maybe internationally, people are more interested in Indian music because it is a whole different culture. Also, Indians who are away from their country may want to keep their culture alive so they listen to more Indian music and attend these live shows more often.
Tell us about your album Piya Bavari.
It started a new genre called 'Raga Lounge' (new-age Indian music). I released it last year and because of Piya Bavari, I have been called the new face of new age music.
What’s your take on DJs diluting the original melody of a classical song?
I haven't noticed a remix in the classical category yet, but in film music, it has definitely diluted the melody. A few international DJs such as Bally Sagoo and some Indian musicians like Leslie Lewis don’t dilute the remixes; they compose. I am a fusion artist and I don’t think anyone can remix classical music. It is called ‘classical’ for this reason.
Is it tough getting a sponsor and releasing an album in India?
Well, the industry revolves around money and labels feel that there is no money to be made from albums. Everyone is money-minded, no one believes in art. But now, artists can release their work through the Internet, reaching a vast audience. That’s what happens when even small artists want to release their work; they do it via the Internet.
