Hariharan to perform at Indian Independence Day show in Abu Dhabi

From fusion to ghazals to playback singing, the veteran Indian singer Hariharan has done it all. His songs with AR Rahman like Chanda Re, Hai Rama and Tuhi Re are memorable. A prolific crooner, Hariharan has scored songs in Hindi, Tamil, Malayalam, Kannada and Telugu. He in now going to bring the curtains down on Jai Ho, a 3-day celebration marking the Indian Independence Day on August 23 at the National Theater, Abu Dhabi. We chat with the singer to know more.
What can one expect to hear at the Jai Ho concert?
I will be singing Bharat Humko Jaanse Pyara Hai and I Love My India.
Which is your favourite ghazal from your repertoire?
To name one ghazal is difficult. However, Kaash Aisa Koi Manzar Hota is a favourite. It has beautiful and simple poetry and the music is also very soothing.
How did your love for ghazals begin?
I am Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khan's shagirdh (student). He taught me his compositions. I was also inspired by Ustad Mehdi Hassan Sahab.

Over the years, what changes have you seen in Bollwood music?
I have been singing in Bollywood since 1977. Until the end of 1980, the style and sound were the same. But the '90s saw a dramatic change in sound and composition, leading to music productions and programming. The songs are more dance and hip hop oriented now. Musical styles change with trends. It changes according to the films being made. As long as it adds to the script and the film, it's good.
You and Leslie were one of the pioneers in fusion music.Why don't we see Colonial Cousins on stage these days?
We do keep doing shows. The kind of fusion we created is still being followed by Bollywood and there are lots of artists and bands who follow this style.
How would you describe the difference between classical music and Bollywood music?
Classical music is meditative while Bollywood music wakes you up!
What are you working on right now?
I am doing two ghazal albums. One is a live recording with me doing Mehdi Hassan's songs and an album with the great poet Farhad Shehzad.
One thing you won't miss out on during your UAE visit?
Food and some shopping for sure.
michael@khaleejtimes.com
Show details
Date: August 23
Venue: Abu Dhabi National Theatre
Tickets: Tickets starting at Dhs75 are available at www.abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net, www.800tickets.com and www.ae.bookmyshow.com[1502977]