Growing up as the son of Padma Shri awardee and Queen of Kathak, Sitara Devi, Ranjit Barot was never short of musical influences in his life.
Unlike most children, Barot's childhood was filled with visiting Hindustani musicians, watching his mother rehearse and learning Indian musicial traditions from the very best.
A firm believer in finding your calling and following it with diligence, Barot believes the current education system keep students ignorant. "We have a birth right to be happy," he says.
In the way he talks and how he approaches both music and life, the influence of his mother on Barot's life is apparent.
If you asked about what she has taught him, he says, “Nothing.” “She didn’t tell me anything. She just lived her life and I just watched her live her life. That’s all I needed to do. Watch and learn,” says Barot.
Menaka Warrier talks to Ranjit Barot about life, music, spirituality and lessons from his mother.
Here is an excerpt from the article -
It is unconventional for the awardee to speak after receiving the Padma Shree. But, then Sitara Devi and was never known to be conventional. When on the mic, she expressed her happiness on receiving the Padma Shree and thanked the government. But, before letting go of the mic, she added that she’d be happier if she also received the Padma Bhushan. Little Ranjit sat in the audience, embarrassed and yet very proud of his mother’s unabashed speech.
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