New Delhi: Anoushka Shankar, a celebrated sitarist and composer, has left an indelible mark on the music world by creating a distinctive sound that seamlessly blends traditional Indian classical music with various contemporary genres like jazz, electronica, and contemporary classical. Her latest project, a trilogy album, epitomizes her innovative approach and artistic evolution.
Shankar’s trilogy album is an ambitious project that encapsulates her creative journey through three distinct chapters. The first two installments-
- “Chapter I: Forever, For Now,” was released in October last year.
- “Chapter II: How Dark It Is Before Dawn,” released in April, has already captivated audiences with their unique themes and moods.
- The upcoming “Chapter III” promises to be a culmination, exploring themes of strength and joy.
In an in-depth conversation over a video call from London, Anoushka Shankar delves into the intricacies of her creative process, her collaborative experiences, and reflections on her musical legacy. She explains that each chapter of the trilogy represents a different part of a musical journey. Chapter One evokes a sunlit garden with melodies and the evening raga Madhumati, while Chapter Two delves into the night and healing through ambient textures. The final chapter is expected to bring the journey to a powerful conclusion.
Anoushka Shankar’s compositions are deeply influenced by her emotions, whether personal or stemming from external events. She reveals, “When I’m alone and writing, strong emotions — whether personal or from external events — drive my creativity. It could be anything from anger to heartbreak over the news. These emotions find their way into my music.”
Collaboration is another significant source of inspiration for Anoushka. She cherishes the connection between musicians, which allows ideas to flow and create something larger than she could achieve alone. This collaborative spirit is evident in her trilogy, where each chapter involves contributions from various artists, enriching the overall experience.
One of the challenges instrumentalists face is the interpretative nature of their music, unlike vocalists who can communicate specific messages through lyrics. Anoushka addresses this by occasionally collaborating with vocalists when the specificity of lyrics is essential for a piece of music. She shares, “When I was going through heartbreak not long ago, the songs I was writing felt important to me because those songs were about that time. So, they were songs with vocalists and lyrics, and it felt like that needed to be clear.”
However, Anoushka also believes that instrumental music has its unique benefits. “With melody, it doesn’t matter why I’m sad or you’re sad; if you feel sadness in this music, it will help you. Music transcends emotions and binds us; it can be a source of comfort, sometimes even overcoming obstacles, even without vocals.”
As a global musician, Anoushka’s approach to performing does not change much based on the location. However, she experiences a sense of rootedness and musical homecoming whenever she returns to India. “I feel a deeper gratitude when I perform in India because I feel so connected to my musical roots. So, there is a slightly heightened feeling in the music when I’m there.”
Anoushka Shankar’s journey into full-time music was not preordained. Growing up in a vibrant musical environment, she was free to explore various interests. At 18, she chose to follow her passion for music instead of pursuing further academic studies. This decision was a pivotal moment in her life, marking her commitment to a career in music.
Reflecting on her journey, Anoushka acknowledges the influence of her legendary father, Ravi Shankar, while also emphasizing her unique path. Her multicultural background has provided her with valuable perspectives, enabling her to navigate diverse environments and collaborate with artists worldwide.
While Anoushka’s sons are musical and artistic, they have not shown a particular interest in the sitar. She has chosen to prioritize her role as their mother over being their guru. “I decided ages ago if I’d rather be their guru or mom, and I don’t think I can do both effectively. So, I’m their mom.”
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Despite this, Anoushka’s sons are aware of their family legacy and are proud of it. They support her musical journey, even though it is not a central part of their daily lives. She draws parallels between her role as a parent and the role her mother played in her upbringing, highlighting the importance of a nurturing and supportive environment.
Anoushka Shankar continues to push the boundaries of her musical expression, blending tradition with innovation. Her trilogy album is a proof to her evolving artistry, reflecting her emotional depth and collaborative spirit. As she prepares for the release of the final chapter, Shankar’s journey remains an inspiring narrative of creativity, resilience, and the enduring power of music.
