MUMBAI: On the occasion of World Music Day, actor Saanand Verma opens up about his deep-rooted love for music, the magic of Kishore Kumar, and why he feels there’s nothing wrong with remixes — as long as they’re done with heart.
“There’s nothing wrong with new versions or remixes,” says Saanand. “So many compositions are being made, and every artist wants to express themselves. If a music director adds their own flavour to an old composition, that’s creativity. There are songs you feel connected to and want to revive with your own touch.”
He points out how the song “Kabhi Naram Garam” from Ludo found a new audience despite not being remixed. “It was used as it is, and yet it brought the song back into people’s lives. Today’s generation might never have discovered it otherwise. That’s the power of music — and that’s why I feel using classics in new ways isn’t wrong at all.”
For Saanand, music is more than just entertainment — it's spiritual. “Music is directly connected to Maa Saraswati. It’s the biggest emotional communicator. Everything runs on vibrations and sound. A sad song can bring tears, a happy one lifts your mood, and a dance track gets you moving. Music is magic — in fact, the words ‘music’ and ‘magic’ are almost made for each other.”
Ask him to pick a favourite song, and he struggles. “It’s impossible to choose just one. Kishore Kumar has sung so many gems — Mere Naina Sawan Bhado, Phir Bhi Mera Mann Pyaasa, everything from Aradhana, Jai Shiv Shankar, Phoolon Ke Rang Se… the list goes on.”
Saanand praises Kishore da not only as a singer but as a complete artist. “He wasn’t trend-driven. He learned by listening to K.L. Saigal. His voice gave life to superstars like Rajesh Khanna, Amitabh Bachchan, Dev Anand. He was also an actor, director, and composer. His magic is timeless.”
The connection is personal too. “I’ve been singing since I can remember. I’m a natural singer, just like I’m a natural actor. I sing all the time — even when I drive alone, which is why I haven’t kept a driver!”
And there’s more on the way. “This year is special — I’ve sung six songs in a film called Golambar. In 2025, I’ll officially debut as a Bollywood playback singer. It’s a big step. Honestly, I can’t live without music. It’s who I am.”
On World Music Day, Saanand’s words strike a chord — reminding us that music, in its truest form, never ages.
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