Anoushka Shankar: Capturing Eternity with Melodies in 'Forever, For Now'

Imagine a tranquil summer day, the gentle sun warming your skin, the sound of children's laughter filling the air. In one such idyllic moment, the acclaimed British-American sitar virtuoso Anoushka Shankar found inspiration amidst the company of her two sons, Zubin and Mohan. This snapshot of happiness spurred her to preserve the essence of such fleeting instants through her music.

Inspiration Behind the Album

In a burst of creativity, Shankar conceived her latest musical venture, 'Forever, For Now', a mini album that has struck a chord with listeners around the globe. Her passion for music shines through as she explains, "Creating is a spiritual and deeply connecting act. You become one with the flow of ideas and the harmony of collaborating with fellow artists." Her thoughts resonate with the authenticity and spiritual connection that her music endeavors to convey.

Live Performances Connect the World

Anoushka Shankar is set to enchant music lovers in Hyderabad with her live performance, elevating the experience beyond mere listening to a palpable exchange of energy. Live shows bring their own kind of magic, allowing musicians to connect on a deeply human level, she believes.

Trilogy of Emotions

'Forever, For Now' is but the first chapter of a three-part emotional saga. Shankar describes the progression through atmospheric and emotional landscapes, from the serene to the immersive, and ultimately to the vibrant energies of the morning. Each chapter reflects a different time of day and a distinct emotional state.

Touring and Future Ambitions

As the world reopens, Anoushka Shankar is embarking on a tour more extensive than any since the onset of the global pandemic. With destinations spanning continents—from North America to Australia, with plans for Europe in the spring—she is also eyeing opportunities to broaden her horizons through new composition commissions. Reflecting on her musical journey, she appreciates the advantages of growing up in a household where the arts were not just encouraged, but revered—a sharp contrast to the typical aspirations for careers in fields like medicine or engineering.

Independence and Cultural Advantage

Though she began her career under the immense legacy of her father, the legendary Pandit Ravi Shankar, Anoushka has since carved out her own musical identity. Her artistry now attracts audiences eager to experience her unique musical vision. She acknowledges both the challenges and advantages of her cultural heritage and her illustrious lineage as key factors influencing her music and worldview.

Collaborations and Aspirations

Anoushka Shankar's career has been marked by collaborations with the likes of Sting, Herbie Hancock, and Joshua Bell. She dreams of working with the avant-garde artist Bjork, among others. Her most treasured moments are diverse, ranging from grand stages to intimate, soulful connections made through the universal language of music. Shankar concludes with reflection and gratitude, "It's an incredible joy to make music."

Anoushka, Shankar, Forever