MUMBAI: Classical vocalist Ajay Pohankar, a musically gifted individual, started singing at the age of 11, and at 68, he continues to be one of the most renowned voices in the classical music genre, after gaining fame for his musical video and fusion album called ‘Piya Bavari’. However, Pohankar has not worked on a Bollywood project till date, and there is a story behind that decision.
“I had a chance to work for a Bollywood project, but because of some politics, things did not work out. There was this film for which my son Abhijit (a classical/fusion music composer and producer) and I suggested a song. I sang the track and was set to do the final recording the next day. However, a famous sarangi player was brought in to sing it. From that day, I have stayed away from Bollywood,” said the musician.
However, Pohankar revealed that he is still open to Bollywood. “If it is not a cheap loud number, I would take it up. I would be more than happy to work on a melodious song,” said the veteran singer. He would also like to work with singer/composer Shankar Mahadevan, whose musical work Pohankar admires.
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The bright side of Pohankar’s not-so-happy Bollywood experience was that it led to one of his best creations ‘Piya Bavari’(2003 release). It was the singer’s son who came up with the idea, and the song was created. “Till date I walk into the studio and let Abhijit direct me in what I need to do,” confessed the singer. He also believes that Abhijit and he are alike in their thought pattern and that is what creates the chemistry at work.
The musician also feels that the creation of the recently launched Saregama Classical App will bring youngsters closer to Indian classical music. But, this will not happen overnight. “Even if the younger generation tries the app out of curiosity, it might help bring them closer to the art form. They might start enjoying that kind of music after a few years. Initially, they might find it slow because they enjoy rhythm more, but, the change will happen gradually. The app will be most beneficial to classical music lovers,” stated the singer.
Pohankar believes that the constant hammering of Bollywood music is the reason why the younger generation is more inclined towards that particular genre, and the same tactic could help classical music reach people. “If you hammer something it becomes branded,” he said adding, “We should have one reality show with all the legends in it. That way the younger generation will listen to classical music and find it magical.”
