Shankar Mahadevan Reflects on 30-Year Connection to Devotional Music
Mumbai — Singer and composer Shankar Mahadevan has reflected on his decades-long connection to devotional music as he prepares to present Anandam, an immersive concert experience centered on music, spirituality and culture.
Mahadevan said devotional music has been an important part of his performances for nearly three decades.
“I’ve been doing devotional concerts for many, many years now, almost for the last 30 years, I’m doing devotional concerts,” he said in a statement.
Mahadevan said the Carnatic classical tradition in which he trained is deeply rooted in spirituality and devotion.
“And even if you see the basic fundamentals of Carnatic classical music, which is the form of music which I learned, it’s all spiritual and devotional music.”
He said devotional and spiritual music is now reaching a broader audience.
“So I’ve been doing concerts for over 30 years now. And finally, I think now, the concept of devotional music, spiritual music, has become so popular, and it’s reaching out to the audiences far, wide, and deep. So it’s something that I really look forward to. And I think it’s a beautiful time.”
Anandam — The Symphony of Devotion will feature Sonu Nigam, Shaan, Usha Uthup, Bhoomi Trivedi, Siddharth Mahadevan, Shivam Mahadevan, Himani Kapoor, the Nandi Sisters, Nikhar Juneja and DJ Afterall.
The production is planned as a large-scale experience combining devotional music and Indian culture.
Mahadevan is a member of the Shankar–Ehsaan–Loy composing trio, which has produced music for numerous Indian films. He received an honorary doctorate from Birmingham City University in 2023.
He first gained prominence as an Indi-pop performer by blending Carnatic and Hindustani classical music with jazz. His non-film album “Breathless” topped Indian music charts after its release in 1998.
Mahadevan has won a Grammy Award and received three nominations. His Bollywood work includes “Mitwa” from “Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna,” “Kajra Re” from “Bunty Aur Babli” and “Gallan Goodiyaan” from “Dil Dhadakne Do.” (Source: IANS)
