Imphal-based Akhu Chingangbam claims he’s a lousy physicist. But the musician, popularly known for his role as frontman of alternate folk rock band Imphal Talkies, did complete his doctorate studies--if only to prove to his detractors that “it wasn’t just the uneducated who chose music.” Chingangbam, who performed in Mumbai last week, is most excited about his latest venture--the Imphal Music Project--which allows him to collaborate with other like-minded musicians to spread awareness about issues plaguing the people around him.

Akhu Chingangbam at Imphal Talkies, the cinema hall after which he named his band