Music can boost Indo-Pak ties: Pt Jasraj

Music is beyond the limitations posed by boundaries and can help in reducing tensions.

Espousing musical exchanges between India and Pakistan as a way to bring the people of the two countries closer, renowned Hindustani classical singer Pandit Jasraj says music is beyond the limitations posed by boundaries and can help in reducing tensions.

HT Image

"Music does not know caste or creed. It is beyond the limitations posed by boundaries. This is why, while Bade Ghulam Ali Khan Saheb sang Hari OmTatsat, I sing Allai Meharban," Jasraj said.

Recounting his experiences in Pakistan, the Padma Bhushan-decorated singer said, "Some years back, I performed in Lahore and Islamabad during Ramzan. And when I sang the bhajan Vithal,Vithal, the audience not just liked it but said the song made them feel the presence of Allah."

Meanwhile, terming the craze for western music as a temporary phase, the noted singer said, "Our music has great staying power. It is like a vast ocean and is based in devotion."

"We will not gain anything from copying America and England. Their music does not have the richness and depth that Indian classical music has," he said.