In a candid interview, celebrated singer Hariharan shared his insights on the evolving landscape of Indian music, emphasizing the burgeoning strength of independent music over traditional film soundtracks. Known for his versatility across genres, the ghazal remains at the core of his artistry. His latest album, Jaan Meri, features five exquisite ghazals penned by Farhat Shahzad, showcasing a unique blend of styles, including a bossa nova twist in the track Baat Se Baat.

Hariharan’s journey with ghazals began in the mid-1970s when he performed on Doordarshan’s iconic show Shaam-e-Ghazal. Shortly after, he made a significant mark with his playback debut in Gaman, composed by the legendary Jaidev. However, it was the 1990s that truly catapulted him to fame, thanks to collaborations with AR Rahman on the soundtrack of Roja and his work with the Hindipop group Colonial Cousins alongside Leslee Lewis.

His profound connection to the ghazal is evident in hit tracks like Hum Bhool Gaye from Aks, Jaaniya Ve from Dus, and Ay Hairathe from Guru. During the interview, Hariharan remarked that the current film industry has limited space for ghazals. “The narratives in films today demand quicker storytelling. Ghazals, which are meant for live performances, often don’t fit into this fast-paced environment,” he explained. This shift has led him to believe that the art form is finding new life outside of mainstream cinema.

For those unfamiliar, a ghazal is a poetic expression of love, often structured in couplets that rhyme, creating a melodic conversation with the beloved. It’s more about the words and feelings than just the music, distinguishing it from genres like jazz.

As independent music flourishes, Hariharan stands at the forefront, championing a return to the roots of ghazal while adapting it to contemporary tastes. With his latest work, he continues to inspire both new and seasoned listeners, reminding us that the soul of music often lies beyond the realms of commercial success.