Mumbai, India, Famend shehnai maestro Pt Lokesh Anand has struck a robust chord with audiences worldwide by way of his evocative shehnai composition featured in FA9LA, the most recent Arabic rap observe from Dhurandhar. The observe, which has quickly gained reputation throughout music and OTT platforms, showcases Anand’s uncommon potential to mix Indian classical custom with modern world soundscapes.
A distinguished disciple of the legendary Pt Jasraj and a number one torchbearer of the Mewati gharana, Pt Lokesh Anand brings over three many years of musical sadhana to the challenge. His shehnai efficiency in FA9LA stands out as a soulful, emotionally resonant layer that elevates the music’s sonic id.
A Life Rooted in Sadhana
Born right into a deeply musical household, Pt Lokesh Anand’s journey with the shehnai started at an early age underneath the steerage of his father, Shri Kalicharan, adopted by rigorous coaching from maestros Pt Anant Lal and Pt Daya Shankar. Nonetheless, it was his affiliation with Pt Jasraj that profoundly formed his philosophy of music.
“Guruji all the time spoke of music as sadhana,” remembers Anand. “That perception has guided each word I play.”
Beneath this tutelage, Anand developed a deep understanding of ragas, self-discipline, and the non secular essence of Indian classical music—values that proceed to outline his work as we speak.
Breaking Musical Boundaries
Over time, as India’s greatest shehnai participant Pt Lokesh Anand has collaborated with main composers, together with A.R. Rahman and Anirudh Ravichander, continually pushing inventive boundaries whereas staying rooted in classical custom.
Talking about FA9LA, Anand says,
“The composers Flliperachy and Dj Outlaw created a singular sound world—the place Indian classical music meets fashionable
world influences. I recorded my shehnai piece as a correct bandish in Raga Jaunpuri for Producer Dhruv Goel, and I’m delighted that it resonated so deeply with listeners.”
The observe, that includes Akshaye Khanna, has change into a standout musical second, with Anand’s shehnai melody incomes widespread appreciation for its depth and emotional affect.
Carrying the Weight of Custom
As one of many few modern artists preserving and advancing the legacy of the Mewati gharana, Anand approaches his craft with a powerful sense of accountability.
“If you signify a convention, expectations are excessive. Each efficiency have to be chosen with care,” he shares.
His performances at prestigious platforms similar to Sawai Gandharva Music Pageant, Sankat Mochan Music Pageant, Saptak Music Pageant, Tansen Music Pageant, Harivallabh Music Pageant, Taj Mahotsav, and a number of other others stand as testimony to his mastery and creative integrity.
Awards and Recognition
Pt Lokesh Anand’s contribution to Indian classical music has been recognised with quite a few honours, together with:
- Ustad Bismillah Khan Award (2024)
- Shehnai Ratna (2010)
- Sangeet Ratna (2005)
“Awards aren’t one thing to take satisfaction in, however to just accept with gratitude,” says Anand, reflecting his humility and lifelong devotion to music.
Wanting Forward
With an illustrious profession spanning over 30 years, Pt Lokesh Anand continues to discover new musical horizons. His upcoming initiatives embrace worldwide collaborations and experiments throughout genres, additional increasing the worldwide presence of the shehnai.
“Music is a unending journey,” he says. “I’m excited to see the place it takes me subsequent.”
Because the haunting notes of his shehnai echo throughout cultures and continents, Pt Lokesh Anand stays a robust bridge between custom and innovation—maintaining the soul of Indian classical music alive within the fashionable world.
