Mumbai, July 21: “Dil Ke Behlane Ki”, the first-ever ghazal composition by acclaimed singer-composer Gayatri Asokan, was formally launched on July 19 at the iconic Khazana – Festival of Ghazals in Mumbai. This launch marks a significant milestone in Gayatri’s illustrious career, showcasing her entry as a composer into the world of ghazals after years of notable work across classical, devotional, and playback genres.
The launch was held on Khazana’s celebrated stage, which has long served as a platform that honors creativity in all its forms. The occasion was graced by legends and esteemed guests including Hariharan, Talat Aziz, Rekha Bhardwaj, flute maestro Rakesh Chaurasia, Sudeep Banerjee, Mahalakshmi Iyer, Pratibha Singh Baghel, Ojas Adhia, and Purbayan Chatterjee, whose presence and blessings added warmth and distinction to the event. The support of Nayab Udhas, Farida ji, and Reva Udhas, along with the entire Khazana team, was instrumental in making the launch memorable. The launch of “Dil Ke Behlane Ki” was met with warm appreciation from both purists and contemporary listeners present at Khazana.
Speaking about the release, Gayatri shared: “Dil Ke Behlane marks my debut as a composer in the ghazal genre — a project close to my heart. Set to the timeless words of Shakeel Badayuni, it brings together melody and meaning. Performed by a team of young, gifted musicians, the piece blends tradition with freshness. It’s an ode to emotion, nostalgia, and the enduring charm of the ghazal.” Set to the evocative poetry of Shakeel Badayuni, “Dil Ke Behlane Ki” is a graceful blend of tradition and freshness. The arrangement preserves the soul of the ghazal while infusing it with subtle, contemporary nuances. The song features an accomplished ensemble of musicians including Megha Rawoot on sitar, known for her nuanced artistry, and Rahul Kathak on tabla, whose sensitive playing lends depth and authenticity. The track was produced by Steve Kottoor, ensuring a soundscape that complements the emotional gravitas of the lyrics.
For Gayatri Asokan, “Dil Ke Behlane Ki” represents not only a personal creative milestone but also a heartfelt effort to introduce the ghazal tradition to a wider, younger audience. By choosing to compose for a genre so steeped in history, Gayatri contributes to its continued relevance and ensures that the ghazal remains a vibrant and evolving part of India’s musical heritage.
The release was managed by BeatRootRaga, the independent music label serving as the launchpad for this special project. The track is now available globally, streaming across all major music platforms, with an official video scheduled to release next week.
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