The jury may still be out on the proliferation and celebration of ‘days' that are perceived to have a baneful impact on our culture by some, and as a fundamental right by others, but this Valentine's Day was marked with great enthusiasm and nationalistic fervour at Harbux Stadium, located in the very heart of Delhi's Army establishment. The festivities were organised as part of the ongoing “Love for the Nation” campaign undertaken by Zee News, in conjunction with the Indian Army, all with an avowed aim to express one's love for the country.
“It is a privilege to be associated with such a noble cause; we always love to perform in Delhi as the audience is very responsive, and this is our third performance here in the last few months,” said ace music composer Vishal Dadlani, who gave a scintillating performance with Shekhar Ravjiani, the other half of the duo. “Delhi weather is superb,” interjected Shekhar.
Forthcoming films
Contrary to the established stereotype of Bollywood biggies remaining on a perpetual ego trip, both Vishal and Shekhar came across as down to earth, with no starry airs or tantrums. On being asked about their absence from reality shows these days, Vishal responded, “For two years, we participated as jury members in several shows, an experience that we found to be quite interesting for a number of reasons — one gets to earn well, have a good time and discover new talent as well.” On a more serious note, he added, “We have been working on four new big banner films that are lined up for release this year, including Dharma Productions ‘I Hate Love Stories', ‘Anjana-Anjanee' and Farah Khan's ‘Tees Maar Khan'”.
Shekhar added, “It is always our endeavour to compose music that is in sync with the script.” On their being sought after as singers now, a self-deprecating Vishal said, “For my success as a singer, the entire credit goes to the music directors who offer me a chance to sing for them; just as we get credit if a song becomes a chartbuster.” Shekhar seconded the thought and added, “I shall be singing for a Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy composition.”
Maiden album
He said the duo will be starting work on their maiden album shortly. “Although I have done one album in 1997 for Archies Records, that was without Vishal,” noted Shekhar. Well, if the past record of the two is anything to go by, they have a sure shot winner up their sleeve.
The event, among others, was attended by Tejinder Khanna, Lt. Governor of Delhi, and the Army brass led by Lt. General K.J.S. Oberoi, GOC, Delhi area. Besides Vishal and Shekhar, the campaign is endorsed by celebrities from the world of films and sports, including Amitabh and Abhishek Bachchan, Priyanka Chopra, Katrina Kaif, Shahid Kapoor, M.S. Dhoni and Bhaichung Bhutia among others.
