I’d like to sing for Sanjay Dutt

His music impels listeners not just to tap their feet but to often break into the bhangra.

Having once shared the stage with Vengaboys, Shanker Sahney now is back with a new album called Glassy, in which he says, he's tried out some interesting international beats – something his listeners are sure to enjoy. A chat with the singer who has been bestowed with titles like the King of Punjabi pop and Bhetaan da Baadshah (King of Spiritual Singing).

Your new album Glassy is just out. Tell us about it.

I have tried new things in it like many interesting international beats. Its video has been shot on foreign locations and features the beauty queen Gauri Anand. This album will cater to my fans in India and abroad. Whenever I am in Canada or the US, I've noticed that people crave for Punjabi music. Even at parties abroad, every alternate number played by the DJs is a Punjabi song. Thus, Glassy is a tribute to all those Punjabi music lovers who always like to put on their dancing shoes.

How was it sharing the stage with the Vengaboys in Kolkata?

It was absolutely a great and a very memorable experience. I received a very good response from the crowd who just wouldn't have enough of our music. And though it has been more than four years now, I still remember the cheering of the crowd and the love and affection I got from them.

What are your plans after Glassy?

After this album, I have two more coming up for release. One is a pop album and the other is based on Sufi music, which I'm sure will be much appreciated. Work on both of these is on simultaneously, since we're looking at a year-end release.

Any plans for Bollywood after all this?

No, I am concentrating only on Punjabi music right now. Bollywood is not on the cards since playback singing for films demands a lot of one's time. I remain busy with more than 15-20 shows every month and am quite satisfied with that. But of course, I am doing a Punjabi film in which I'm playing the lead role.

Who is your ideal when it comes to Bollywood music?

I am an ardent fan of AR Rahman and ghazal singer Ghulam Ali. And if I ever get a chance to perform with them, I will feel so honoured and put in my best.

Finally, who is the one actor you'd like to sing for in films?

It has to be Sanjay Dutt. He is a great actor and can carry off any role so effortlessly. And, of course, mainly because my voice would suit him.