Veteran folk singer Gazi Khan Hadwa, the man who popularised the song Nimbuda, is as vibrant as his appearance. He tells K Bhardwaj that he is in love with Eiffel Tower and Parisian women
Do you remember Nimbuda from Sanjay leela Bhansali’s Hum Dil Chuke SanamIJ While the song went on to become immensely popular and also revealed Aishwarya Rai Bachchan’s impeccable dancing skills, one man, miles away from Mumbai, who perhaps didn’t approve all of that, was legendary folk singer Gazi Khan Hadwa. An extremely talented Manganiyar, Khan is the musician who actually made Nimbuda famous by performing it numerous times across the globe. Nonetheless, with a career of 40 years and a massive fan following, he got a thunderous response at RIFF when he belted out his favourite hits one after the other. His prompt improvisation, live poetry praise and terrific energy on the stage make him one of the most versatile folk artistes of all times. He is a performer who not only sings but also enacts the entire lyrics during the performance.
Khan is unapologetically honest and doesn’t mince words. He explains his thoughts mostly in verses and couplets he has memorised since childhood. “I was born in Pakistan and was initially trained by uncle. I learnt the ragas but yes, I have always been very instinctive in my performances. The audience does appreciate when you engage them with your nautanki. However, the sur and music must not be exhausted,” he says.
Clad in a black Nehru jacket with a colourful necklace and a turban on his head, he talks like a carefree spirit. However, his personality is no less than his vibrant avatar. Ask about his experiences of performing in other countries, he promptly grins and says, “I have seen almost all countries now...from New York to Melbourne to Amsterdam to Mascat but Paris is the most stunning place. In fact, it has some amazingly beautiful women. I have loved the experience of Eiffel Tower.”
Unlike his other Manganiyar colleagues, Khan also acknowledges the role of women in his training. He says he grew up listening to women members of his community which helped him hone his vocal skills. A good observant he was, he absorbed those vocals and now produces them in his performances. “That’s another striking feature of my talent,” he beams.