Hariharan to perform ghazals at Humrahi in Hyderabad

Hariharan at a concert
| Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

Hyderabad holds a special place in Hariharan’s heart. “It’s the hub of Urdu in the South, home to incredible poets and singers. Performing here is always a pleasure,” says the Padma Shri and National Award-winning vocalist ahead of Humrahi: An Evening of Ghazals.

Reviving ghazals

Striking a chord with music lovers
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

Humrahi, an initiative by Banyan Tree, was conceptualised a decade ago to promote and revive ghazals. “I have known Banyan Tree founder Mahesh Babu for over 20 years now,” says Hariharan, reflecting on his long-standing association with the organisation.

The concert will feature some of his most beloved ghazals, including Kaash Aisa Koi Manzar Hota, Shahar Dar Shahar, and Jhoom Le Hus Bol Le, along with thumris like Baton Baton Mein and Tu Aaja Kanha. Adding a contemporary touch, the performance will also showcase ‘Urdu Blues’, a genre within the ghazal that Hariharan himself pioneered.

Having visited Hyderabad since the 1970s, the singer cherishes many fond memories of the city. He particularly misses the late ghazal maestro Vithal Rao, with whom he shared enriching musical gatherings. “Singing ghazals in Hyderabad feels like performing in Lucknow. Hyderabad mein ghazal aur Urdu itna achha aur pyaar se sunte hain (people in Hyderabad appreciate ghazals and Urdu with deep love and understanding), ,” he says.

Golden jubilee

Hariharan completed 50 years in music in 2024
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

Last year marked a significant milestone in Hariharan’s illustrious career as he celebrated 50 years in music. Ask him about his incredible journey, and he credits his mantra of living in the present. He does not dwell on his laurels but cherishes the love and appreciation of his audience.

This year, he is set to release two ghazal albums — Jaan Meri, featuring poetry by Farhad Shahzad, and a tribute to the legendary Mehdi Hassan. He has also collaborated with his son, music producer Akshay, on fusion tracks slated for release later this year.

For Hariharan, every album marks a new chapter, and his ability to reinvent himself keeps him going. “You have to feel young, connect with today’s generation, and sing,” he shares, revealing his secret to staying relevant across generations. This year began on a high note with Iptida Mehfil, a revival of intimate baithaks in Mumbai. Interestingly, early in his career, he was part of many gharelu baithaks — small, home concerts steeped in musical tradition. “The mehfil culture thrived in the 70s and 80s but has become rare today. I miss the closeness and the silence of an engaged audience. It felt wonderful to experience it again,” he says.

Turns curator

Hariharan’s musical journey continues, not just as a performer but also as a curator. He is spearheading ‘Soul of India’, a four-day music festival set to begin on February 26 in Pune. The festival brings together an eclectic mix of artists, including sitar maestro Neeladri Kumar, vocalist Ghulam Siraj Niazi from Rampur, and Sounds of Maharashtra, a concept by Rahul Deshpande. The event also features a Bollywood night with Hariharan and Shankar Mahadevan, along with a showcase of emerging ghazal singers. The festival will conclude with a soulful ghazal performance by Suresh Wadkar.

Hariharan performs at Humrahi, An Evening of Ghazals on February 21 from 6.30pm onwards at Shilpakala Vedika; Tickets on bookmyshow.com