Indo-American DJ KSHMR on his love for Indian music, and his upcoming tour
Niles Hollowell-Dhar aka KSHMR feels a deep-rooted connection with India and it shows in his unabashed love for anything Indian - be it the Taj Mahal or the music album of Bunty Aur Babli (2005). The Indo-American DJ-producer is looking forward to take his romance with the country a step ahead during his upcoming six-city tour in India this month. Ahead of his gig at the Mahalaxmi Race Course in Mumbai on October 29, the musician talks about his tour, his wish to venture into Bollywood and memories of India.
Bunty Aur Babli is KSHMR's favourite Bollywood album
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This marks your first solo India tour. What prompted it?
If it were up to me, I would have come way before. The organisation of the tour took too long. Since my first performance at Sunburn [2016] was career-defining - the best moment being bringing my grandfather on stage — I wanted to come back to India for a solo tour.
Having stayed in the US all your life, how well-versed are you with Indian music?
I have a strong affinity for Indian songs. For instance, I was obsessed with the music of Bunty Aur Babli, which my Indian fans told me was a cheesy record. I am actually weird when it comes to my choice in Indian music [laughs]. I try to inculcate a lot of 'Indianness' in my music.
Indo-American DJ KSHMR
Do you follow Bollywood music?
I watch Bollywood films. I love Aamir Khan; I cried after watching Dangal [2016]. As far as music is concerned, I recently collaborated with Sonu Nigam for a single called Underwater. I would love to become more involved with films and compose for movies. I'm aware it's hard to break into the industry. One of my biggest inspirations is AR Rahman. In fact, the set that I've prepared for my India gig has some Bollywood songs too.
What are your memories of the country?
During my college days, I told my parents that I wanted to quit studies and pursue music. After quitting college, I came down and stayed in India with my grandpa. I was here for six weeks. That's when I developed a connection with the country. My dad took me around to many hill stations and temples. We went to Agra; seeing the Taj Mahal was an amazing experience.
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