Hariharan on singers performing at weddings: I need decorum when I sing
Mumbai, Feb 20
Acclaimed singer Hariharan has opened up about the ongoing debate regarding whether singers should perform at weddings or not. He revealed that he needs decorum when he sings.
Speaking to IANS exclusively, he said that singing is done to get happiness, and as long as that goal is achieved while maintaining a proper ambiance, he is happy.
He told IANS, "See, I'll tell you one thing. I do all kinds of concerts. I am very open. But I need decorum when I sing, and I make sure I have it, and I am peaceful with it."
"Why do you sing? " To bring happiness, and if you can get happiness, that happiness in any situation with proper ambiance is fine," he went on to add.
Before Hariharan, several singers have shared their views on people inviting singers to perform at their weddings.
Refreshing your memory, earlier, singer Abhijeet Bhattacharya got into a heated argument with Neha Kakkar about singers performing at weddings.
Abhijeet said that performing at weddings reduces the status of a singer.
"Koi bhi paisa diya or shaadi mein gaane lage, usme aukaat kam ho jaati hai. Meri aukaat hai, main bol deta hu, main nahi gaunga. Duniya ki koi taakat tumhe khareed nahi sakti. (Performing at a wedding reduces the value. I have the authority, I can say no, I will not sing. No power in the world can buy you.)"
However, Neha was of the opinion that no work is big or small.
"Aap apni mehnat ka kamao or mehnat ka toh kaise bhi kamaya jaa sakta hai. Shaadi mein gaana buri baat nahi hai. Jo fans hote hai, woh aapko pasand karte hai, issliye aapko bulate hain. Kaam koi chhota ya bada nahi hota hai. (Earn from your hard work. Singing at weddings is not a bad thing. Fans like you, that's why they invite you. No work is big or small.)
— IANS
Reader Comments
Neha Kakkar has a point. If fans are inviting you to be part of their biggest day, it's an honour. Earning from your talent is never wrong. What's this "aukaat" talk? Work is work. As long as you're paid well and treated well, why not?
It's a personal choice, yaar. Some artists are comfortable in a concert setting, some enjoy the festive vibe of a wedding. Hariharan is a legend, he can set his terms. A new singer might see it as a great opportunity. Both views are valid.
Interesting debate! Coming from a different culture, I see both sides. An artist's performance environment matters for their art. But also, sharing your gift at a personal celebration is beautiful. Maybe it depends on the specific wedding's vibe and agreement.
Frankly, Abhijeet's comment sounds elitist. Indian weddings are massive, joyful events. If someone is paying you a good fee to sing for a family's happiness, where is the loss of "status"? The real status is in being humble and connected to your audience.
Hariharan's point about decorum is key. I've been to weddings where the singer is practically begging the crowd to listen. The hosts should ensure a proper setup and encourage guests to be attentive. It's about creating the right "mahol" for the artist. 🎤
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.