Hariharan in a concert | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

Hyderabad holds a special place in Hariharan’s heart. “It is the center of Urdu in the south, home to incredible poets and singers. Performing here is always a pleasure, “Padma Shri and National Award winning singer, Humahi: Ahead of Humahi: A Evening of Ghazal.

Revival ghazal

Striking a raga with music lovers. Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

An initiative of the banyan tree was conceptualized a decade ago to promote and revive Humahi a decade ago. Says Hariharan, “I have known Mahesh Babu, the founder of the banyan tree for more than 20 years.”

The concert will include some of his cutest ghazals, including I wish Aisa Koi Manzar Hota, Shah dar shahAnd Jhoom take husbandLike with Thmaris Baton baton mein And You today KanhaConnecting a contemporary touch, the performance will also show ‘Urdu Blues’, which is a style within the ghazal, which Hariharan led himself.

After visiting Hyderabad since the 1970s, the singer nurtures many fond memories of the city. He especially recalls the late Ghazal Mestro Vithal Rao, with whom he shared a rich rich rich. “Ghazal song in Hyderabad looks like performing in Lucknow. Hyderabad Mein Ghazal and Urdu Itha Achha and love with love (People in Hyderabad appreciate Ghazal and Urdu, with deep love and understanding), “They say.

Golden Jubilee

Hariharan completed 50 years in music in 2024. Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

Last year, an important milestone was marked in Hariharan’s magnificent career as he celebrated 50 years in music. Ask him about his incredible journey, and he credits his mantra to live in the present. He does not pay attention to his praise, but cherishes the love and appreciation of his audience.

This year, he is ready to release two ghazal albums – Jaan meriPoetry specialty by Farhad Shehzad, and tribute to veteran Mehdi Hassan. He has also collaborated with his son, music maker Akshay, on the fusion track to release later this year.

For Hariharan, every album marks a new chapter, and his ability to reinforce itself continues to strengthen it. “You have to feel young, join with today’s generation, and sing,” he shares, which reveals his secret to be relevant in generations. The revival of intimate Baathak in Mumbai this year began on a high note with Ipdida Mehfil. Interestingly, at the beginning of his career, he was part of many people Domestic baathak – Small, home concert immersed in music tradition. , Mahfil The culture concluded in the 70s and 80s, but has become rare today. I miss the closeness and silence of an attached audience. It seemed amazing to experience it again, ”he says.

Changes the curator

Hariharan’s musical journey continues not only as an artist, but also as a curator. He is leading the ‘Soul of India’ at a four -day concert starting in Pune on 26 February. The festival brings together a liberal mixture of artists, including Sitar Mestro Neeladri Kumar, singer from Rampur Ghulam Siraj Niyaji, and Maharashtra’s voice, a concept by Rahul Deshpande. The event also includes a Bollywood night with Hariharan and Shankar Mahadevan, as well as a performance of emerging ganal singers. The festival will end with a intimate ghazal performance by Suresh Wadkar.

Hariharan performs in Humahi, an evening of Ghazal in Shilpakala Vedika from 6.30 pm on 21 February; Bookmyshow.com ticket