Leaving an indelible mark on the Indian music industry, Classical Maestro Naushad Ali’s contribution was profound. Unlike many of his peers, he did not lend his music to a large number of films, yet his impact resonated powerfully. His unique approach to presenting our cultural roots through classical music sets him apart.
In a rare throwback interview with Naushad Ali from 1993 with Lehren, he opened up about his musical journey. He revealed that he had worked on around 65 films, which was fewer than many other creators but despite this, he stated, “I kept on making music not because I wanted money, but because I did it from my heart.” He further added, “Maine kabhi bhi sangeet ko vyapar ke tarazu me nahi tola” (I never measured music in terms of business).
Naushad Ali remained true to his craft and continued his work with the film Teri Payal Mere Geet (1993), which was directed by his son Raju Naushad and produced by his close associate Prem Lalwani. He highlighted that this film featured music composed using traditional raagas and emphasized how the cultural significance of Indian music had been overlooked amidst the rise of disco music. He remarked, “If I made youngsters listen to music types like Darbari Raag, Bhopali, or Durga Raag, they ask from which other country this music comes.”
Also Read: ‘Kohram’ Bomb Blast Sequence Ft. Jackie Shroff’s Cameo; WATCH VIDEO
Music maestro Naushad noted the difficulty of integrating classical music into modern cinema and highlighted how this challenge had been present since the 1980s to 1990s. Naushad Ali had always aimed to spread Indian music worldwide, driven by his dedication and unwavering motive.
Watch this below rare interview with Naushad Ali to know in detail:
Entering the cinematic industry in 1937, Naushad Ali was part of some exceptional and evergreen films, including Prem Nagar (1940), Darshan (1941), Dillagi (1949), Baiju Bawra (1952), Pakeezah (1972), Kohinoor (1960) and many more. Notably, Mother India (1957), renowned for its intense narrative and emotional music, was the first Indian film to receive an Oscar nomination.
The Indian cinema industry had undergone drastic evolution, much of the classical music and cultural richness that had inspired earlier generations seemed to be lost in contemporary cinema and Naushad Ali’s voice for the importance of classical music and its cultural roots in Indian cinema underscored the challenges faced in preserving this rich heritage amidst evolving trends.
