Marathi actor and classical singer Jashan Bhumkar is emerging as a rising star in the Indian music scene. Beyond his musical prowess, he is also an entrepreneur and a dedicated fitness enthusiast.
The Revival of Interest in Hindi Music
In response to the question of whether the popularity of Fusion music and KPop has led to a decline in interest in Hindi music among listeners, Jashan Bhumkar offers a different perspective. He states, “No, I don’t believe there’s been a decline in interest in Hindi music. In fact, I’m quite optimistic about it.” According to Jashan, there has been a resurgence of interest in Hindi music, especially among the youth. Unlike the past, where remixes often incorporated English elements like English rap, modern remixes are now emphasizing Hindi versions of songs. The lyrics are evolving, striking a balance between modern and traditional Hindi.
The Evolution of Hindi Usage in Songs
Jashan Bhumkar has observed significant changes in the music industry’s approach to using Hindi in songs in recent years. He explains, “In recent years, there have been positive changes in how Hindi is used in songs.” Remixes and contemporary songs now prioritize Hindi lyrics over heavy English influences. Furthermore, even traditional Hindi, such as Braj Bhasha, is gaining popularity. This shift has allowed music to establish deeper connections with young audiences and reach a wider fan base.
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Encouraging Aspiring Musicians to Embrace Culture
When asked about advice for aspiring musicians, particularly regarding embracing cultural heritage, Jashan Bhumkar encourages young talents to explore and embrace India’s rich cultural legacy. He highlights the trend among many young artists who are returning to their roots. Whether through Sufi, Ghazal, or classical music, he urges them not to hesitate in reinterpreting traditional music in their unique ways. He emphasizes the importance of preserving the original emotion while presenting it to a broader audience. Jashan believes that this journey in music can be beautiful and resonate with millions of people.
Jashan Bhumkar’s Musical Journey
Jashan Bhumkar is renowned for his soulful renditions of classical music, encompassing ghazals and abhangs. He has even created a classical version of ‘Rangi Sari Gulabi Chunariya,’ originally popularized by Kavitha Seth. His versatility as an artist shines through, as evidenced by his rendition of the title track for the award-winning play “Don’t Worry Ho Jayega,” delivered in a jazz style. Jashan embarked on his musical journey at the tender age of five and gained recognition as a young talent in classical music on All India Radio’s talk show, Yuva Tarang. His performances have graced the screens of Doordarshan and the airwaves of USA National Radio. With over two decades of training in Hindustani classical music, Jashan proudly carries the legacy of his late guru, Gaanasaraswati Kishoritai Amonkar. He has also received training from esteemed figures like Pandit CA Agarkar and Gaanyogini Dhondutai Kulkarni, the last representative of the Jaipur-Atrauli gharana in its purest form.