PT Vishwa Mohan Bhatt, the first Indian music maestro to get the Grammy Award is not happy the way classical music exponents are treated in India.

“If even one per cent of the money being spent on tournaments like IPL is utilised in promoting real talent, Indian classical music will rule all over the world,” says Bhatt credited with successful Indianisation of the western Hawaiian guitar into Mohan Veena.

In Lucknow to perform for a SPIC MACAY programme, Bhatt says classical music need not be as popular as pop or rock. “Such music is for a different genre, we have our audience and they are only increasing in number,” says the maestro soon after mesmerizing the students of La Martiniere Girls Inter College with his pristine pure, delicate yet fiery music.

What upsets him is the fact that while few write obituaries for legendary classical singers like Gangubai Hangal and DK Pattamal, Michael Jackson’s funeral is shown live on Indian television.

“We must learn to give credit to our people also,” he says dismissing the notion that modern day kids are losing interest in classical music.

“They have the sense to appreciate music that is worth a praise,” he says as he interacts with kids post an hour-long mesmerizing performance.

“Classical music is not that intricate that and one needs to have a knowledge of it.To enjoy it, you must attend concerts regularly,” says Bhatt who is all for fusion.

“Through fusion two different streams come together bringing with it possibilities of two cultures coming together. It is a different dimension of music, a different expression to be honoured if done properly,” he says emphasising that it requires spontaneity and improvisation.

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