India mystifies me: Knopfler

The lead vocalist and guitarist of Dire Straits says that India is a big market for music.

When you're seeking Shangri-La in the mind, come to India, says legendary musician Mark Knopfler, best known as the voice and guitar of the band Dire Straits.

HT Image

"India offers a broad spectrum of philosophy and spirituality to those seeking a Shangri-La state of mind," says Knopfler whose latest album too is titled Shangri-La.

"India has always fascinated me and I am looking forward to the concerts in Mumbai and Bangalore," said Knopfler, who will play in Mumbai March 5 and in Bangalore March 7.

India, he said, was becoming a bigger market for music. "I believe there always was a market. What is happening now is that there is a greater openness. Asia, indeed India, can no longer be ignored," said Knopfler.

The guitarist, whose nimble skills have graced albums by Bob Dylan, Van Morrison, Buddy Guy, Sting, and Steely Dan, said it was "really thrilling" for him to find out he had a huge fan base in India.

"Concert promoter Venkat Vardhan tells me that I have a huge fan following here which is really thrilling. I am looking forward to playing in India and connecting with people who have listened to me all these years."

Though best known as the frontman of Dire Straits, the band he formed in 1977 with his brother David, Knopfler says the solo career he launched in the 1990s has steered clear of gimmickry while focusing on the music.

"I fronted Dire Straits. I wrote most of the songs and the tunes," he said, referring to the band that sold millions of records and packed huge arenas.