An epitome of 'Never giving up on your dreams', 'living legend' in the Eastern Classical genre and internationally acclaimed legend of North Indian Bamboo Flute needs no introduction. Padma Vibhushan Pt Hariprasad Chaurasia, who is today an eminent artiste par excellence, has achieved success after six decades of sheer hard work, devotion and dedication. His journey as a son of wrestler was tedious but he managed to wrestle all odds to give his life to music. In this week rendezvous, we pay our tribute to the living legend for his outstanding contribution in popularizing Indian Classical music globally:

When I had entered in the music industry people were very unhappy with my decision. Everyone questioned that why a wrestler’s son wants to pursue music as a career. That was the time when music was looked down and was not consider as a good career. People felt that I would beg on streets. Nonetheless, I am happy that things have changed and government authorities are appreciating and encouraging music to grow. Corporate giants are sponsoring and appreciating the art which has helped in blooming the musical talent in the county. Even after six decades of my musical voyage, I still remember that moment when people used to tell me that I would beg and regret on my decision. I am sure I will never forget those struggling days ever.

Frankly speaking no one actually thought at that time that I will have media recognition and be respected so much for my work. I have received Padma Vibhushan; no one thought so then. However, today I am a very happy man with the way my career has shaped up. I will advice and encourage the coming generation who has received god’s grace to have faith on their talent. Today, no one wishes to know what Sachin Tendulkar has studied but the world is crazy behind him. If he had educated himself to take some other profession then would the world know him?

Undoubtedly, education is an important part of your life. It gives you a way to think, talk and see the world in a better way and it’s a way forward. But education as a means to achieve fruitful career or profession is only a medium for your livelihood. Early it was said that education is needed to be a rational human being but now education is pursued to be a rich man and people have made it as a business. Be a lawyer, you will be paid more; be a doctor and get paid higher salary. As a result you end up becoming a professional of something that may not be your field of perfection. I strongly believe one should have god’s grace and talent for the work one does.

When I am performing on stage, I pray to god with my music; the difference between me and a temple pandit is that he prays to god in Sanskrit and I pray with my flute. With my flute, I pray to god for bringing happiness and peace around the world. Music has the strength to change the world.  In hospital, music therapy is used to cure patients. When medicines fail music works for them and this is the power of music.

Moreover, I am delighted to see that the young generation is interested in music and are taking up the art as their career.There is an exceptional talent that is over-flowing. Many kids have also started loving and enjoying my music and also started playing it. This is also a ray of positive hope that classical music will stay alive for decades and the young generation will carry our legacy.

My son Rajeev Chaurasia,  has also directed a documentary film called Bansuri Guru’.  It was one of the most memorable moments for me to have a documentary that is made on me and I was thankful that the film division released it commercially. Film Divisions has helped in putting forth my thoughts, views, emotions and achievements to far of places. This documentary will help people understand me better and know my achievements. This is the first time that a documentary is made on me and it feels great.

With my experiences, I would only like to say that value the life given by the almighty. Pursue your dreams and don't fear any obstacles that come your way.