World Music Day: Badshah shares what the artform means to him
Mumbai, June 21
Rapper Badshah, who serves as a judge on the singing reality show 'Indian Idol', has shared what music means to him, on World Music Day.
He shared that for him, music is all about breaking boundaries, exploration, and the ability to connect with people at large.
He said, "Music was never meant to fit into boxes for me. It's about breaking boundaries and creating moments that move people. Every genre has a story, every artist has a voice worth celebrating, and that's exactly what World Music Day reminds us. Platforms like Indian Idol do something truly remarkable. They don't just discover talent, they unleash it. I've watched countless artists walk through those doors as dreamers and walk out as voices the nation knows and loves. That transformation, that confidence they gain, that's the real power of music. On a stage like Indian Idol, it doesn't matter where you're from or what style defines you. What matters is your truth, your passion, and your ability to connect".
He further mentioned, "That's what we celebrate on World Music Day. Not perfection, but authenticity. Not conformity, but courage. To every artist pushing creative boundaries: keep creating with conviction. To every listener keeping music alive in your homes and hearts: you're the reason we do this. The future of Indian music isn't just bright, it's fearless. And Indian Idol is helping write that story, one voice at a time".
Earlier, the rapper looked back at his remarkable 20-year journey in the music industry. Taking to his social media account, he shared a series of nostalgic pictures from different stages of his life which was accompanied by a heartfelt note reflecting on the highs, lows, victories and sacrifices that have shaped his career. The carousel begins with a childhood photograph featuring a young Badshah sitting beside his father.
The other pictures offered a glimpse into his teenage and early adulthood years, capturing moments with friends and loved ones.
Badshah began his musical journey as part of the popular music group Mafia Mundeer alongside Yo Yo Honey Singh, Raftaar and Ikka.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Honestly, I wish Badshah had focused more on how the Indian music industry has become so commercialized. While I agree with his point about breaking boundaries, his own journey from Mafia Mundeer to becoming a mainstream pop star shows that sometimes the 'boxes' are just replaced with other labels. Authenticity is great, but let's not pretend the industry doesn't push artists to follow trends for viral hits. Still, good message for World Music Day overall.
As someone who grew up in a small town in Tamil Nadu, I can relate to what Badshah is saying. Music brought people together even when everything else divided us. I remember listening to his tracks during college days. It's inspiring to see how far he's come. But more than that, I appreciate him acknowledging that true power of music lies in its ability to connect hearts. The future of Indian music is indeed fearless. Shout out to all the independent artists from non-Hindi regions too!
As an American, I've always found Indian music fascinating. Badshah's perspective on breaking boundaries is universal. His description of artists walking through doors as dreamers and coming out as voices the nation loves - that's what music does everywhere. I'm glad Indian Idol is giving that platform. Would love to see more cross-cultural collaborations between Indian and Western artists. Music truly has no borders. 🎶
Badshah's journey is a lesson in perseverance for every Indian who dreams big. From the Mafia Mundeer days to becoming a judge on Indian Idol, he has seen it all. I love how he emphasizes authenticity over perfection - that's something our society desperately needs. We are so obsessed with 'perfect' marks, 'perfect' careers, 'perfect' lives, but music reminds us that imperfection is okay. That's real freedom. Happy World Music Day to all artists keeping it real! 🌟