In a world dominated by technology, where everything from vocals to compositions can be arranged with a click, there are devoted individuals dedicated to preserving the timeless heritage of Hindustani classical music. One such passionate artist is Suraj Bhartti, a classical singer and vocal coach based in the culturally rich UAE. He firmly believes that this ancient and deeply rooted form of music will never fade from the hearts and minds of people. What’s particularly intriguing is the diversity of his student base, which spans from eager five-year-olds to enthusiastic learners in their 70s. Suraj embodies the spirit of giving back to today’s music enthusiasts, not just through his performances but also through his compositions and teachings.
City Times recently sat down with the musician to explore his journey and understand how he keeps the timeless art of Hindustani music alive in a modern, fast-paced world. Suraj began studying Hindustani classical music at a very young age. Music has always been his calling, starting at the age of five, and it has become an integral part of his identity. Coming from a musical lineage, with his grandfather, Anand Kumar Singh, a Dadasaheb Phalke Award winner, and his father, Shailendra Bharti, a renowned devotional singer, Suraj was naturally drawn to this path. Their influence has been profound, and while he could have pursued other fields, music fills him with joy and connects him to something greater.
Moving to his current base in Dubai, Suraj has been delighted by the warm reception Hindustani classical music receives here, especially among such diverse audiences. In Dubai, Hindustani classical music is appreciated by a mosaic of cultures — Arabs, Pakistanis, Russians, Germans, Sri Lankans, and more. Many of his students come to explore not just singing but also practices like opening the throat chakra. It’s a wonderful fusion of traditional art with contemporary exploration. Recently, Suraj has been approached by the film and TV industry for his compositions. His original tracks can be found on platforms like Spotify and Apple Music. It’s a joy for him to write, compose, and produce music that spans from emotional ballads to energetic dance tracks and powerful devotional mantras. This versatility helps him connect with a broader audience.
For Suraj, teaching is deeply fulfilling. Witnessing three generations of a family learn together — grandchild, parent, and grandparent — has been truly remarkable. This bond through music is incredibly special. He also has students who pursue their passion for singing later in life; one of his oldest students is 78. I even have chartered accountants who turn to music for a refreshing break from their mundane jobs. Their dedication inspires him every day. Suraj tailors his teaching approach for students at varying levels of experience, beginning with a simple singing exercise to assess their position in their musical journey. This helps him categorize them as beginner, intermediate, or advanced, allowing him to tailor his lessons accordingly.
In a tech-driven era, where autotuning is common, Suraj believes that music education can retain its passion and dedication. Technology has transformed music, but it has limitations. Autotuning may correct pitch, but it can’t replicate the emotion that comes from a heartfelt performance. The essence of music lies in its emotional depth, which dedicated learners can appreciate. No matter how advanced technology becomes, the journey of learning music, especially the nuances, will always require passion and guidance. Considering the saturation of the music industry in the UAE, Suraj views the market for trained singers as valuing quality. Trained singers bring depth and knowledge, which is why he often performs at events where audiences come specifically to enjoy his music. The key is authenticity and a commitment to excellence; over time, this cultivates a dedicated audience.
For those interested in learning music from Suraj, he is quite active on social media. Just search “Suraj Bhartti” and you’ll find his profiles, website, and videos. For vocal coaching, look for “Singing with Suraj” on various platforms. He offers both online and in-person sessions, making it accessible for everyone. Suraj’s singing programme “Singing with Suraj” includes a variety of courses, including a recent one where students can learn four Bollywood songs in just five days. It’s designed to be simple and effective, and available at an affordable price. His preparation process for a performance starts with understanding the songs he’ll perform. He practices thoroughly to ensure he engages the audience fully. Keeping his voice hydrated and avoiding strain is crucial. Vocal warm-ups help him maintain flexibility across different genres.
Lastly, Suraj’s advice to someone just starting in Hindustani classical music is to dive in wholeheartedly. The journey offers personal and mental growth beyond just singing. Engaging with Hindustani classical music can transform you in ways you may not expect. Embrace the beauty of this art form, and you’ll find yourself enriched in countless ways. Sadiq Saleem is a UAE-based writer and can be contacted through his Instagram handle @sadiqidas.
