What gave Rahul satisfaction

Composer Rahul Sharma tells Johnny D about ups and downs in life.

Having released his 33rd album 'White' recently, Rahul Sharma makes it clear that he would prefer to travel all around the world to perform in concerts rather than compose music for Bollywood films.

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Rahul is currently promoting his latest album 'White', in which Brazilian girl Klara has lent her voice.

Going back in time, Rahul recalls, "I started very late because my first concert was at the age 22. However, in the past 11 years, I have released 33 albums with White. Dad has been a great support, who gave me the right direction towards this beautiful instrument."

An artist who also has an LLB, Rahul indeed has rare qualities. "You can say I was directionless when I was in college. However, I am glad that I took up music because creation gives you an ultimatum," says Rahul with a smile.

He might have had a bad experience composing the music of

Mujhse Dosti Karoge

, Lata mageshkar singing three songs for the movie gave him immense satisfaction.

"Now that is what gave me a great satisfaction!" The composer adds, "With no malice to anybody, I realised how difficult it is to create music for a Bollywood movie. Not that I despise anyone in particular, but creativity needs freedom but in Bollywood, one has to not only create music to keep the filmmaker happy but also the producer, his family and other people connected to the film. This particular aspect surely hampers one's creativity. That is when I decided I would rather create my own album and play in concerts to keep my listeners happy and content as well!"

So will he compose songs for films if he is given a free hand? Rahul reveals, "I was also offered Hum Tum but that time I had my concerts lined up, so I couldn't devote time to accept the project. I would love to but then you know how Bollywood works (smiles)."

Does he regret the decision for not taking such a hit project?

"No regrets at all! Because for any artist, the joy and high to perform to a live audience is the ultimate high as there is one to one reaction," he answers.

So, who's his favourite music director from Bollywood? Pat comes the reply, "RD Burman, he was just great!"

On what made him chose the title 'White' for his album, he says "White is the colour with which one can relate to beauty, peace, purity, innocence, mother's milk, snowfall and everything beautiful."

But why did he chose to play and master the difficult instrument Santoor? Rahul explains, "Balance of the two hands and concentration has to synchronise each other. It has more than 100 strings and one must excel in its technique. It also depends on how passionate one is towards one's craft and art."

Rahul concludes, "The rich culture and heritage of Indian music is unmatched. Awareness because of globalisation has been tremendous. More and more youth are getting attracted towards Santoor. My albums are selling better. I am currently working on the idea to open a school of Santoor, where in students can learn this beautiful instrument because the prospects of this instrument is gaining tremendously worldwide. Do hope my dream comes true at the earliest! Touchwood!"