Jan Samwaad: Music band with a difference

18 February, 2013

'Be the change you wish to see', this inspiring adage aptly fits Jan Samwaad, a musical band endeavoring to transform social fabric plagued with issues such as poverty, gender discrimination, terrorism and communal violence. Not many musicians and lyricists will delve into social activism in this era of materialism wherein people are treading paths to make fast money. But then there are people who desire to go extra mile, think out of box to impact lives.

Jan Samwaad, a musical band based out of Hyderabad is doing yeoman’s service through music. I was witness to one such programme organized at Lamakaan, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad on Feb 16.

The band through its mesmerizing and thought provoking music immediately struck chord with the audience. Every rendition had a deep and a crucial meaning for the audience and society at large.

The conscience shaking evening began with a rendition focusing on human beings’ struggle for life, existence…Dil Banjara Hae. With Ye Kaisee Bhookh hae, the band emphasized on farmers’ suicides and irrational land encroachment in the garb of development.

With Appeal rendition, the band hurled flak at 2002 communal riots of Gujarat, lyrics were heart-wrenching…Cheekhtee, chilati, cheerti, aandhiyan poonchtee hain…

Jan Samwaad, while playing Sawaal raised issues pertaining to gender discrimination and crime against women, leaving many listeners spellbound.

Surendra Singh Negi, one of the founders of the band while highlighting the objective behind Jan Samwaad said: “Jan Samwaad is a musical movement which tries to engage audience into social and political issues through music.”

Ramnayak, a government officer with ECIL described the whole event as “excellent”, “The lyrics, music was really touching, excellent. With every song, the band is raising an issue. Really a very good attempt”, he said.

Negi is the lyricist and also lends his voice too during rendition. Tariq Shaikh, guitarist, Shashi Surabh, table player and Subhash Kumar, sound and production support, are other members of this band.

If you are determined to transform lives, you can. Jan Samwaad is one such live instance dedicated to impact social fabric of the nation using music.