Sonu sings at the Royal Albert Hall
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The singer is fresh and rejuvenated after his trip from the Himalayas
Upala KBR
upala@mid-day.com
Sonu Nigam continues to enthrall audiences, not just in India, but abroad as well. The singer recently performed at the prestigious Royal Albert Hall in London in front of a crowd of over 5,000 people. But the icing on the cake was when the famous Pakistani Sufi singer, Abida Parveen, praised him after his performance. He tells us more…
How was the meeting with Abida Parveen at the Royal Albert Hall?
I met Abida Parveen on stage after her performance was over, as my performance was the finale. I touched her feet and then she hugged and kissed me and told the audiences to clap for me. I heard that Abida Parveen was so moved by my performance that she said, "No singer has been born in Pakistan or in India in recent times that could surpass the talent of Sonu Nigam." I don't take compliments seriously, as there is no end to learning music. But having Abida Parveen say it was humbling.
What was the experience of performing at the Royal Albert hall?
This is the second time I have performed there. The first time was for the HOPE Foundation Charity show. This time, the most amusing part was when the security told me that I had turned the concert into a rock show. People there were shouting and dancing as they were enjoying the live band performance. I sang a mixture of my latest hits and some old numbers to keep the energy going.
Why aren't you doing more films?
After Love In Nepal, which was the only movie where people and critics liked me, I have realised that acting is just not only about you. It's teamwork between the director, actor, co-stars and also correct marketing. I realised that I should be extremely cautious in choosing a project. I don't want to waste 90-100 days on a project I am not sure of.
Are you planning to bring out a new album?
It's the first time I am working in my own small studio with extremely knowledgeable friends. We are currently working on a never-before-heard album.
After your traveling experience, what has life taught you today?I was already in pursuit of a new outlook towards life. My perception of life has changed in last two-and-half years, thanks to the kind of books I have read and Ruheeji, my yoga teacher. I feel that journey has just begun. Trekking and traveling only helps to broaden my outlook towards nature, but I have along way to go.
You look slimmer and trimmer now.
It's very amusing, as every one is saying the same thing. In reality, I have gained two kilos! I workout regularly, but I don't overdo it. It's also because of my hair and beard, that I'm looking leaner. My strength and stamina has increased, so has my singing prowess. Basically, I like to keep working on myself — be it musical, spiritual and physical work.
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