Vishal Dadlani: Aim is to make them self-sufficient

Perturbed by young musicians turning to other means to make an income during the pandemic, Vishal Dadlani offers helping hand with scholarship

Hit hard by the pandemic, several musicians — especially budding talent — were forced to sing a different tune. Social distancing norms resulted in the loss of shows due to closure of public spaces and restaurants.

Perturbed by the scene, musician Vishal Dadlani envisioned a way of reaching out to the affected. “Established names of the music industry need to encourage new talent. Affected [artistes] are not only lacking opportunities, but are also forced to find work in unrelated spheres to support their families,” says the singer-composer, who is planning to create a scholarship programme that will offer help to at least 50 musicians, every year. “It will provide a sense of security, and enable them to get back on their feet. The aim is to make them self-sufficient, and then sustain themselves. I want to reach out to artistes belonging to different genres of music,” he says, without spelling out further details.

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Dadlani, who returns as judge of the new season of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa, says that while YouTube and social media have given budding singers a chance to showcase their talent, “you have to be good, to get noticed”. It is with this reality show that he began his journey in television in 2007, along with collaborator Shekhar Ravjiani. Another stint followed in 2010. “It’s homecoming after 11 years. Sa Re Ga Ma Pa pioneered the concept of music reality shows in India 25 years ago. I have judged other shows, but the lehja of this one is distinct; it is rooted in Indian culture.”

Dadlani considers music reality shows a stepping stone in a singer’s career; one that brings them attention and admiration. “The audience wants to hear their voice and know them [better]. This is why their life story is weaved in. Even international labels market stories of their artistes.” Dadlani quit the last season of Indian Idol — its 12th — mid-way, after the second wave forced a change in shooting location. “Things are better now with everyone being fully vaccinated, and well aware of the precautions that need to be taken.”

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