Strings of Change

Through this instrument and Rababi Sufi,a new genre of music,Mehndi says he is trying to reinvent himself and his art,and in the process,taking it to as many people as he can. As opposed to the Sarod or the Mohan Veena,the Swarmandir,claims the singer,is easier to master and play. “All one needs is four to five months to learn it and then it can be played with any genre of music,be it pop,rock,classical,Sufi or ghazal.” Being lightweight,it can be carried anywhere in the world. Also,it’s an all-weather instrument. “The Swarmandir has been designed in such a manner that it can withstand any weather change,unlike other instruments,” says Mehndi,adding that he spent months creating the instrument. “It’s an uphill task to create a new instrument,to make sure it plays the perfect sound. Only those with expertise and knowledge of sur,taal and laya can manage this feat,” he says.

The year 2012,says Mehndi,will be his “year of Sufi”. In fact,he recently held a concert in Bhopal,where he played the swarmandir and Rababi Sufi,featuring the works of Kabir,Fareed,Baba Nanak and Bulle Shah. “I’m born into a family of Gurbani singers and have been well-versed with Sufi music since I was four,” says Mehndi,who shot to fame with Punjabi hits like Tunak Tunak and Bolo Tara Rara. “It’s the knowledgeable verses of the Gurus,Bhagats and many other saints that form a part of Rababi Sufi,” he elaborates.

For now,films and albums are a big no. At present,Mehndi is focussing all his energies on the beautifully designed the Swarmandir,which bears antique embellishments. “It now has to reach the people,” he says.

Sitar maestro Pt Ravi Shankar unveiled the Swarmandir at Kamani Auditorium on Thursday evening.