Read This: Langas and Manganiars of Rajasthan – It’s their story

Emotional Journey Through Sound

“Yaara” takes listeners on an emotional ride, combining Nishant’s heartfelt lyrics with a pulsating beat crafted by producer Neosky. This unique fusion evokes feelings of longing while energizing the audience. Nishant reflects, “Heartbreak is universal. For me, ‘Yaara’ is not just a song; it encapsulates my emotions and experiences.”

A Rising Star in Music

From Jaipur, Rajasthan, Nishant has made a name for himself in the industry, focusing on romantic and melancholic themes. His collaboration with Hoopr marks an exciting chapter, allowing him to explore new sounds without losing his emotional essence.

Exciting Collaborations Ahead

Producer Neosky adds a distinctive touch to “Yaara,” pushing the boundaries of sad romantic music. Nishant is also working on two upcoming projects with Hoopr: a lively Diwali song and a heartfelt wedding track, showcasing his versatility.

Industry Praise

Gaurav Dagaonkar, Co-founder and CEO of Hoopr, stated, “We’re thrilled to introduce ‘Yaara.’ Nishant has crafted a track that is both emotionally impactful and musically inventive.” Bhumika Shukla, GM-Music at Hoopr, added, “With ‘Yaara,’ Nishant and Neosky have created something exceptional—a modern twist on heartbreak.”

Stream Now

“Yaara” is available for streaming on Hoopr and YouTube, offering a fresh perspective on love and heartbreak for listeners everywhere.

The post Yaara: A Fresh Take on Heartbreak by Nishant Kamal Vyas appeared first on Delhi Messenger.

The beginning

Chamkila’s music career began in the late 1970s when he started performing at local events and fairs in Punjab. He quickly gained popularity for his unique style and soon became a household name in the region. His music was heavily influenced by the rural folk music of Punjab, which he blended with modern instruments and rhythms to create a distinctive sound.

Chamkila’s lyrics were known for their bold and controversial themes, including social issues such as caste, gender, and poverty. He also sang about love, heartbreak, and the struggles of everyday life in Punjab. His music was often criticised for being too explicit and vulgar, but he defended his lyrics by saying that he was simply reflecting the reality of life in Punjab.

The rise

Chamkila’s career peaked in the 1980s when he released several hit albums such as “Pehle Lalkare Naal,” “Babu Chandigarhia Da,” “Mera Jee Karda,” and “Jatt Di Dushmani.” His songs were characterised by their bold and irreverent lyrics that challenged the social norms and taboos of Punjabi society. He sang about love, heartbreak, social issues, and everyday struggles, giving voice to the aspirations and frustrations of the common people. Chamkila’s collaborations with his wife Amarjot were also hugely popular, and their electrifying performances became a hallmark of Punjabi music.

The assassination

Unfortunately, Chamkila’s career was cut short when he was tragically assassinated along with his wife Amarjot Kaur on March 8, 1988. This remains one of the most tragic incidents in the history of Punjabi music. The couple was returning from a performance in Mehsampur, Punjab, when they were ambushed by a group of armed assailants who fired multiple shots at them, killing them on the spot. The killers were never identified, and the motive behind the assassination remains unclear.

The killing of Chamkila and Amarjot sent shockwaves through the Punjabi music industry and the public, who were in disbelief that such a heinous crime could be committed against two beloved artists. The incident led to widespread protests and demands for justice, but the investigation into the case did not yield any concrete results. Over the years, several conspiracy theories have emerged regarding the assassination, but none of them have been proven. Chamkila’s death left a void in the Punjabi music scene that has yet to be filled, and his legacy continues to inspire and entertain millions of fans worldwide.

Also Read – Coachella: How this music festival became a cultural phenomenon

The biopics

A court in Ludhiana, Punjab, has recently issued a stay order on the release of the upcoming Punjabi film ‘Jodi Teri Meri’, which is a biopic based on the life of the legendary Punjabi folk singer, Amar Singh Chamkila, and his wife, Amarjot Kaur. The movie, produced by Amberdeep Singh and featuring popular actors Diljit Dosanjh and Nimrat Khaira in lead roles, was scheduled to release on May 5.

This is the second time that a court in Ludhiana has intervened to halt the release of a Chamkila biopic. Previously, the court had stayed the “broadcast, release, and streaming” of another Chamkila biopic, titled ‘Chamkila’. This movie is directed by Imtiaz Ali and features Dosanjh and Parineeti Chopra in lead roles.

The post Amar Singh Chamkila: Iconic Punjabi folk singer and his enduring legacy appeared first on Delhi Messenger.

Coachella is an annual music and arts festival held in the Coachella Valley of California, United States. The festival was founded in 1999 by Paul Tollett and Rick Van Santen, and it has grown into one of the largest and most popular music festivals in the world. The event is known for its diverse lineup of artists, unique art installations, and fashion-forward attendees.

History of Coachella

The first Coachella festival was held in October 1999 and featured acts such as Beck, Tool, Morrissey, and Rage Against the Machine. The festival was originally intended to be a one-time event, but it was so successful that it became an annual event. In 2001, the festival was moved to April to take advantage of the cooler spring weather, and it has been held in April ever since.

Over the years, The event has hosted some of the biggest names in music, including Prince, Madonna, Beyonce, Radiohead, and Kendrick Lamar. The festival has also become a platform for up-and-coming artists to showcase their talents to a massive audience.

Highlights of Coachella

One of the unique features of the festival is its art installations, which are scattered throughout the festival grounds. These installations are created by artists from all over the world and are often interactive, allowing attendees to engage with them in different ways.

Another highlight of the event is its fashion. Attendees often dress in bohemian or hippie-inspired clothing, with many opting for colorful outfits and bold accessories. The festival has become a trendsetter in fashion, with many retailers and designers creating Coachella-inspired collections.

The music lineup is also a major draw for attendees. The festival features a diverse range of genres, including rock, pop, hip-hop, and electronic music. Many artists use Coachella as a platform to debut new music or stage elaborate performances.

Popularity Among Youth

The festival has become a rite of passage for many young people. The festival’s location in Southern California, combined with its diverse lineup and unique atmosphere, has made it a must-attend event for many music fans. It has also become a social media phenomenon, with attendees sharing photos and videos on social media.

The festival’s popularity among youth can also be attributed to its inclusive and diverse nature. Coachella has made efforts to promote diversity and inclusion in its lineup and among its attendees. In recent years, the festival has featured more LGBTQ+ artists and has partnered with organisations that promote social justice.

Overall, Coachella has become much more than just a music festival. It is a cultural phenomenon that has influenced fashion, art, and music. The festival’s popularity among youth is a testament to its ability to evolve and adapt to changing cultural trends. With its unique atmosphere, diverse lineup, and focus on inclusivity, Coachella is likely to remain a must-attend event for music fans for years to come.

The post Coachella: How this music festival became a cultural phenomenon appeared first on Delhi Messenger.

Indie music scene in Delhi: Challenges

One of the biggest challenges that indie musicians in Delhi face is a lack of financial support. Most musicians are self-funded, and they struggle to cover the costs of recording and releasing their music. Additionally, the lack of venues that support independent music means that musicians often have to pay out of their pockets to rent spaces to perform in.

Another significant challenge is the competition in the industry. With so many musicians vying for recognition and a platform to showcase their work, it can be challenging for independent musicians to stand out. However, many musicians in Delhi are finding ways to overcome these challenges by using social media platforms to promote their music and connect with their fans.

Indie music scene in Delhi: Opportunities

Despite the challenges, there are numerous opportunities for independent musicians in Delhi. The city has a diverse audience that appreciates a wide range of music styles, and this has led to an increase in the number of gigs and events where musicians can showcase their talents. Many independent musicians have also been able to collaborate with filmmakers, brands, and other artists, which has helped them gain exposure and recognition.

Another opportunity that independent musicians in Delhi have is the support from the city’s music community. Delhi has a vibrant music scene with a supportive network of musicians, music journalists, and fans who actively promote independent music. This has helped musicians connect with each other and collaborate on projects, which has contributed to the growth of the scene.

One notable trend in the indie music scene in Delhi is the emergence of fusion music. Musicians in Delhi are blending traditional Indian music with western genres like jazz, rock, and electronic music. This has resulted in a unique sound that is representative of the city’s cultural diversity. Many independent musicians in Delhi have been able to gain recognition and success by experimenting with this fusion style.

In conclusion, the indie music scene in Delhi is thriving, with many talented musicians and bands emerging from the city. While there are challenges that musicians face, such as a lack of financial support and competition, there are also numerous opportunities for them. With the support of the city’s music community and the growing interest in fusion music, the future of independent music in Delhi looks bright.

The post The indie music scene in Delhi and its challenges appeared first on Delhi Messenger.

The auditorium is almost packed as the COVID norms have just been eased. There is a vibrant energy in the auditorium as we all wait for the spectacle to begin. And what a spectacle it is indeed!

The music

First, a big shout-out to the soundtrack composed by Delhi-based rock band Indian Ocean. Each of the songs is unique and oh-so-catchy. To be honest, it is not exactly what I was expecting. But it was definitely a fresh take on the soundtracks generally used for musical productions in India. A number of vocalists have also contributed playback. Overall, a big thumbs up to the music.

Then comes the background score. Another job well done, I can safely say! A great mix of traditional and modern with just the right notes at the right times.

The story

Do two hours for a musical seem a bit much? Trust me, you won’t even know how time flies as you get engrossed in the spectacle of the performances. There is not a dull moment when you feel that the show is dragging on its feet. If anything, I would say it is pretty amazing that the life, teachings, and ideologies of Babasaheb have been captured so well in this short span of time! I will not dive into the details here and just avoid spoilers altogether. But I will tell you that we see the struggles that Babasaheb faced since childhood on account of being from the Mahar caste, considered to be untouchable by upper-caste Hindus. Getting educated, finding a job, finding a place to stay, and spreading his message in the correct manner — all of these proved to be obstacles in the life of this great statesman.

I went into the show knowing very little about his life. As I discovered more and more details over the course of the show, I just had one gnawing question at the back of my mind. Despite so many setbacks, and so many challenges, how did this man leave such a huge mark in the making of independent India? How did he manage to study and write so much? How did he become the father of the Indian constitution, as we know him today?

The show explores all this and more, including his differences with Jawaharlal Nehru and Mahatma Gandhi as well as the influence he wielded on the huge number of people considered to be ‘untouchable’.

The artistes and performances

Over 150 dancers and actors participated in Babasaheb The Grand Musical. The lead role of Dr Ambedkar was played by actor Rohit Bose Roy while theatre actor Teekam Joshi essayed the role of the narrator, a modern-day Ambedkarite freshly returned from Columbia University (which is also Ambedkar’s alma mater). Joshi plays the role of taking the audience almost on a time travel journey through Ambedkar’s life. At regular intervals, he addresses the audience and asks pointed questions whose purpose is to make us think. These he delivers with utmost expertise. Roy, on the other hand, does quite a good job of capturing the struggle of Babasaheb’s life. Reciting the Preamble to the Indian Constitution is his final act, which is perhaps also among Ambedkar’s most valuable contributions to India.

With two of them leading the charge and all the dancers providing great support to the narrative, all the artistes succeed in leaving quite a mark.

In the first half of the show, I did find the choreography to be a little bit repetitive. It was a lot of similar-looking jazz routines. I would have loved to see a bit more of other styles or variations in the beginning. But the use of props, formations, and lights more than make up for this slight slip. Moreover, the second half finishes strong, especially the anthem which is based on Maharashtrian lavani-style music.

The production and sets

I will be candid here. When I went in, I was NOT expecting the set to be so grand and, in general, so professional looking. I later discovered that Umang Kumar was the set designer. The 40-foot-wide rotating set in the middle of the stage was a vital part of the entire narrative. The physical structure along with lights and projections make for a comprehensive set.

Some elements of the production especially stay with you. The use of masked figures features prominently on stage. The larger-than-life-size bust of Dr Ambedkar at the end is a show-stealer for sure. Through the use of a variety of elements, the makers have managed to create quite a few goosebumps-inducing moments.

Why Babasaheb – The Grand Musical is important

Since childhood, music and dance have been big parts of my life. In my formative years, I have witnessed quite a few musicals (or ballets as they are called in the Delhi circle). Most of these were at Kamani Auditorium or Shri Ram Bhartiya Kala Kendra. I must confess that my family always scored passes because my awesome dadu was the one composing the music for these spectacular shows. Watching Shri Ram around Diwali and a few more musicals during the annual Ballet Festival were almost a yearly ritual for my family. As I grew older, I also started accompanying dadu to rehearsals sometimes. It seemed so amazing to me at the time, watching such beauty being created almost out of thin air!

A few years back, an alternative form of the musical came up at Kingdom of Dreams. But we all know that this was definitely not everyone’s cup of tea, primarily due to the exorbitant ticket prices. A few other musicals that happened over the past decade also posed the same problem. A regular person like me would think a million times before spending that kind of money on a musical.

Thus, when I got to know about Babasaheb the Musical being performed in Delhi, I just HAD to go. And I am so glad I did. I got to share this experience with thousands of others who have also witnessed this show. The informative yet entertaining show is a great way to spend a day with family or friends in Delhi.

Babasaheb – The Grand Musical is being performed from 25 February to 12 March 2022. You can book your free ticket from Book My Show today. As photography was not permitted during the show, I can only show you very limited glimpses here.

The post Babasaheb – The Grand Musical: Touching hearts and igniting minds appeared first on Delhi Messenger.

The setting sun was the backdrop to the evening. The guests and the artistes enjoyed the snacks sponsored by food partner Gopala. Their bruschetta was a great hit. ‘We were happy to partner with Delhi Messenger on this unique concept. We are glad that everyone enjoyed our food. Looking forward to more such creative collaborations,’ says Mayur Chaddha from Gopala.

The non-alcoholic malt beverages sponsored by Barbican were also in great demand. Karn Chopra from Barbican says, ‘It was great to see Delhi Messenger support upcoming indie musicians and giving them a platform to perform and grow. It’s was nice to see that someone is working for the intimate scene concept in Delhi. We wish to see more of these happening.’

The Khirki Village started the evening off by playing a few songs from their upcoming EP. ‘It was a perfect evening. We loved the way the audience were listening to our music. People need more of such experiences. The vibe was great, the location, lights, ambience … Everything was perfect.’ They even got requests for an encore performance! The duo loved the Sundowner concept. ‘Delhi Messenger did a fantabulous job. Food was amazing, the malt drinks were awesome.’

Sanjeeta carried through the rest of the evening with her original compositions. She was not just a performer at the event. She also helped to plan the gig. ‘I am glad we could make it happen in the matter of a month. And for the first such gig, the turnout was really great. It is encouraging to see that people are into it. Can’t wait for more!’

The entire evening was peppered with music, conversation, and laughter, giving it a truly intimate vibe.

The guests all gave an overwhelming response. ‘I think the gig was a great idea. It gave a platform to artistes and gave me a chance to hear new indie music. It was a really intimate set-up with great conversations with the artistes. Can’t find that on YouTube! I’d love to be back again,’ shares one of the guests Tarishi. Louis Pereira says, ‘The musicians were great. The vibe was great too. Looking forward to the next gig!’

The post Intimate Gigs: The New Way of Listening to Live Music appeared first on Delhi Messenger.

Sanjeeta has been making waves on the indie music scene since she started off two years ago. She dabbles with various genres and has already released multiple singles. The Khirki Village is a two-member musical duo who are currently working on their EP (extended play). They have built up quite a repertoire of original songs and play them all acoustic.

The setting will be intimate and the experience will be one you would not have had before. With no amplification or mics, it’ll just be the musicians and their music. An offbeat location for the gig has been selected, the exact address of which will be revealed only a day before the gig and only to those who confirm their presence.

Entry to the gig is free and it’s BYOB. There would be food and non-alcoholic beverages, sponsored by our F&B partners, Gopala and Barbican.

About Delhi Messenger:

We are a media start-up, focusing mainly on art & culture, travel, and lifestyle. We are a team of two who are following their passion and curating and creating the content we love to see and read ourselves. Our last major project was a web series called The Artiste, in which we interviewed indie artists. We love art and culture, meeting and interacting with people, and thinking of and executing ideas on how to do both these things together.

About Gopala:

Gopala was born in 1963 out of a simple desire to procure unadulterated milk from local farmers and make it available to people in its purest form in Delhi-NCR. Over the years, the brand has not only found its footing in fresh dairy products but has also expanded its wings by offering a range of quality products including classic Indian sweets, flavoured breads, and namkeens.

About Barbican:

Barbican—The Authentic Taste of Malt. Non-alcoholic malt beverage Barbican is available in 11 exciting flavours across retail stores all over the country.

The post Sundowner by Delhi Messenger appeared first on Delhi Messenger.

She describes the past two years as quite a ride. After finishing her music degree at Berklee College of Music, she came back to Delhi. She got in touch with her friends from school who were already performing on stage. That helped her get gigs initially. However, soon it was the venues that started reaching out to her.

‘I was playing 15–16 gigs a month. That helped me get to know a lot of people. But I started getting saturated very soon. I was not working on my own music,’ she says. Finally, she decided to take a step back from playing as many gigs. She has released quite a few singles since then.

Now, she works on her own music and also plays with a set group of her friends. She hopes that eventually they can call themselves a band.

Sanjeeta’s music is inspired from many sources. She trained as a Hindustani classical vocalist for 8–9 years before she went to Berklee. ‘I was exposed to different kinds of music at Berklee. And I learnt that so many music traditions in the world have similar roots. People say that gypsies from India travelled to Europe. So you would find similarities between, say, Flamenco and Indian music.’

Part of the challenge of being in the industry comes with being a woman. Sanjeeta shares an experience that she once had with a well-established musician. ‘He called me over to work together. But I eventually realised that he wanted nothing professional from me. Nothing to do with music. He probably had the audacity to do that because he is already a big name. Maybe he thought I would just go along with it because it might help my career.’ Sanjeeta advises all young artistes to not let such things come in the way of their music.

She also advises indie artistes to streamline their genre, find the right audience and the right people to play with. ‘That’s the most important thing,’ she says.

To know more about Sanjeet’s music and her journey, watch the entire episode here.

The post The Artiste feat. Sanjeeta Bhattacharya | Episode 4 appeared first on Delhi Messenger.