Though super singer Sonu Niigaam has been away from public glare for some time, he has never been too far away from controversies. Whether it is a spat with a journalist or getting embroiled in a squabble with Vidhu Vinod Chopra some time ago, he has been getting some share of newsprint off and on.
Donning a new hairstyle, sweet-faced Sonu promises to turn a new leaf now. He is all set to come up with his new album of world music. Also, he will now be seen on television in the role of mentor in the music reality show Amul Chhote Ustad -Do Deshon Ki Ek Awaaz, coming soon on Star Plus.
Speaking at the recent launch of the show in Mumbai, Sonu clears the air about his absence from the industry. “People misheard me. I said that I am not going to do bad work, I was always open to good work. People like Shankar Mahadevan, Vishal-Shekhar and Pritam never offered me work. In the industry cinema has become a very big thing and singers are just a little subordinate. Now, I am coming up with a new album on world music. The album has seven songs in different languages. Four songs are in English, two in Hindi and one in Gujarati. The album is going to be released shortly.”
Sonu is indeed trying to bring the world closer through his music. He believes that music can help India and Pakistan find a common chord and defends the participation of Pakistani artistes in Indian shows, including Chhote Ustaad. “Our industry is bigger than the film industry in Pakistan. The public there follow our films and our music. So, it is our duty to invite them as the big brother. We have the greater responsibility of encouraging music in our neighbouring country. Give and take comes when both parties are equally strong,” he says.
By Sonu's side is Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, also a part of the reality show. He says, “It is not that we do not want to invite Indian artistes, but the present political situation in our country is not conducive for it. Terrorism is there, even shows are not held. People in Pakistan have the utmost respect for Indian artistes. We like Indian films and Indian artistes more than our own. We only like to see Indian stars.”
Sonu states, “Chhote Ustaad is going to be a one-of-its kind show, and it is going to play a good role in improving ties between both countries. What I believe is that you cannot change the mindset of an adult. The seeds of peace can be sowed in tender minds. The kids from our neighbouring country, who are participating in the show, are subject to Indian hospitality. They are going to spread the message of peace when they are back home. We will see the positive effect of this, maybe after a decade when this generation grows up.”
Sonu goes on to add, “It is a music show and we are going to talk only about music.Both me and Rahat are going to give a personal touch to the kids. It is not a competition between the children of the two countries. We have 10 voices from each country; they are kids and we cannot divide them.”
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