Javed Akhtar: Poetry is the music of language, and music is the poetry of sound
The Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) has kicked off the second season of “Soundscapes of India,” a unique music showcase festival and global conference. Running from November 10 to 12, this three-day event is organized by the Indian Performing Right Society Limited (IPRS) with support from the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, and in collaboration with MusiConnect India. The festival aims to celebrate India’s rich musical heritage while connecting local artists with international opportunities.
Inaugural Session Highlights
The festival commenced with an inaugural session featuring Padma Bhushan awardee Javed Akhtar, a renowned poet, lyricist, and screenwriter, who is also the Chairman of IPRS. During a press conference, Akhtar discussed the festival’s significance and various related topics. He was joined by Rakesh Nigam, CEO of IPRS, and Mayur Puri, a professional storyteller and screenwriter. Akhtar led a special session on songwriting titled “The Art of Song Writing,” where he delved into the intricate relationship between poetry, music, and creativity. He emphasized that “Poetry is the music of language, and music is the poetry of sound,” illustrating how both art forms share a foundation in rhythm and harmony.
In this session, Akhtar critiqued modern poetic trends, particularly prose poetry, which he described as “a deception.” He argued that by stripping away melody and rhythm, prose poetry loses its essence. Akhtar maintained that true poetry must possess a musical quality, stating, “The proof of true poetry lies in its melody.” He highlighted the importance of discipline and rhythm in poetry, asserting that these elements allow even untrained readers to connect with the work.
Reflections on Society and Art
During the press conference, Akhtar shared his thoughts on the decline of quality in film lyrics, linking it to broader societal changes. He remarked, “You tell me about the society, and I will tell you about its aesthetics,” suggesting that the focus on employment in education has diminished the depth of literature and language. He questioned how artistic expression can thrive when the primary motive for learning is financial gain.
On the topic of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Akhtar expressed skepticism about its creative capabilities. He stated, “AI may serve as an efficient tool, but it cannot be creative.” He elaborated that art emerges from the complex interplay between the conscious and subconscious mind, a process that AI cannot replicate. Akhtar also noted a decline in society’s appreciation for art, emphasizing the importance of following one’s passion in the creative journey.
Festival Overview and Global Participation
Akhtar characterized India as “a country of music,” rich in diverse musical traditions, particularly in regions like Uttar Pradesh and the North East. He clarified that “Soundscapes of India” is not a talent hunt but a showcase aimed at bridging creativity with market opportunities. The festival features over 100 artists and 24 bands, including international performers and more than 15 global festival directors, curators, and industry leaders. The performances span various genres, including folk-fusion, classical-fusion, hip-hop, jazz, metal, pop, and rock, with songs performed in multiple languages such as English, Hindi, and Tamil.
The event serves as a platform for Indian artists to connect with international representatives from 15 countries, including Canada, Germany, and Japan. This global participation opens doors for collaboration and exposure, enhancing the prospects for Indian musicians on the world stage.
The previous edition of “Soundscapes of India” significantly impacted several emerging Indian bands. Notably, the Bengali folk trio Bawl Mon gained international acclaim through the festival, representing India at the Busking World Cup in South Korea, where they won the title. Similarly, the Delhi-based percussion group Taal Frey performed at the prestigious Rainforest World Music Festival in Malaysia after their appearance at the festival.
“Soundscapes of India” is more than just a music festival; it is a vibrant celebration of India’s cultural and linguistic diversity. By connecting Indian musicians with the global music community, the festival plays a crucial role in positioning India as a creative force in the international music landscape. As India’s music industry continues to gain recognition worldwide, events like this reaffirm that the sounds of Indian music resonate far beyond its borders, echoing across the globe.
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