To break the monotony of Bollywood songs, playback singer Abhijeet Sawant on Monday launched his new album titled Farida in the Capital which seeks to revive interest in Sufi music.
Abhijeet, who emerged triumphant in the first edition of singing show Indian Idol , says Sufi music is a different kind of music and has not been explored to such an extent as other genres of music. “Sufi music is devotional and it inspires artistes like me to come up with soulful music which will be remembered by posterity. For this album we have derived inspiration from writings by revered Sufi poets. There are seven songs and we have roped in three music directors.”
Shedding light on his newly produced album, the reticent singer, best remembered for his hit song Mohabbatein Lutaunga , says Farida has universal appeal. “As a genre, Sufi music is an unexplored territory. To revive interest in this kind of music, I am travelling across the length and breadth of the country. The basic idea was to try and create songs which are like a breath of fresh air. These days music has become monotonous. Moreover, Sufi music which preaches the need to live in peace and harmony with one’s neighbour soothes the mind. In today’s world, where the people generally are leading stressful lives, it has become more relevant than ever before.”
Speaking about Indian Idol , Abhijeet says it was an overwhelming experience becoming the heartthrob of music lovers from across the country, who showered their love and affection by voting for him.
Through this show, Abhijeet won the hearts of television viewers who appreciated his songs, but admits that he failed to cash in on his success either on the big screen or the small screen.
“Unfortunately, I am a laid back and introvert person. It has been a long circuitous journey for a boy from a humble background. No doubt I have become a well-known music personality but still have to work diligently for at least three years in my field of specialisation.”
Like his role model Sonu Nigam, a proficient singer, he too digressed into movies but he has finally realised that it is important to keep his focus only on music. “I did a film Lottery and also participated in a dance reality show.”
Admitting that artistes whose parents are from the film industry find it easier to find a foothold in the tinsel town, Abhijeet says he does not to mix his career with his family life. “I have a couple of films lined up but would speak about them only at an appropriate forum. My wife is a housewife and my father comes from a non-film background. Instead of taking this negatively, I feel it is good that they do not come from the film industry.”
