Music has always been an artistic and cultural force in the society we live in. Even in its impact, some artists have gone past what was thought achievable and created new boundaries for the art form. Today, let’s discuss the melodious contribution of a musician with such distinguished caliber – Shankar Mahadevan.
The singer-composer is trained in Hindustani Classical and Carnatic music and has had the opportunity to study music under Late Pandit Shrinivas Khale and T.R. Balamani. He has been one of the ardent believers in infusing classical tunes into Bollywood compositions to revive the popularity and stature of classical music among the new generation.
Here are the top 5 Indian Songs by Shankar Mahadevan
A singer and composer, Shankar Mahadevan is part of the Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy trio which has made several successful songs that have lasted the test of time with its artistic appeal. Here are some of the most memorable compositions with a classical twist.
1. Breathless
This indie-pop album featuring Javed Akhtar, released in 1998, gave Shankar Mahadevan a taste of stardom overnight. The 3-minute classical pop song, Breathless gained huge popularity for a steady tempo without a break. Breathless went ahead to win the award for the Best Non-Film Album at the Screen Awards in 1998. The song is still a rage among music lovers and particularly dancers.
2. Mitwa
Shankar Mahadevan displays his command over classical music in this amazing song from the Karan Johar movie Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna. Primarily sung by Pakistani singer Shafqat Amanat Ali, the song demonstrates a beautiful blend between Bollywood and classic tunes and ragas. In fact, it has won several accolades and an award for being the Best Raag Inspired Song.
3. Sapno Se Bhare Naina
This beautiful song from Zoya Akhtar’s Luck By Chance shakes us from the uncomfortable reality of chasing dreams relentlessly. Sung by Shankar Mahadevan himself, Sapno Se Bhare Naina charms us with its deeply meaningful lyrics and the evident twist of classical notes. The beautiful lyrics penned by Javed Akhtar and the melodic tune make this song a classic.
4. Mahaganapathim
Essentially a Shree Ganesh Stuti, this wonderful devotional song is a brilliant Carnatic fusion composition praising the divinity of Lord Ganesha. It is a beautiful contemporary interpretation of an old classic penned by the famous South Indian poet and composer Muthuswami Dikshitar. Listening to it in Mahadevan’s voice will indeed transcend you into a peaceful zone.
5. Maa
The classical inspired song is from the famous Bollywood movie Taare Zameen Par and is voiced by Shankar Mahadevan himself. The heart-wrenching song is dedicated to mothers, praising their love and how they are always able to understand their children, even in silence.
Interestingly, these songs have been a popular choice of soundtrack for semi-classical, contemporary, and other fusion dance forms. Through his songs, Shankar Mahadevan has influenced not only music lovers but has also piqued the interest of other art forms and those new to fusion music.
Now, you have the opportunity to interact virtually with the legend himself on Saturday, 23rd July from 6 PM onwards. Enjoy an evening of music, fun and conversation with our ChildCentric® Homes celebrity ambassador, Shankar Mahadevan.
Register now! Few spots left.