Shaan creates history; gives an enthralling performance at Proms

For the first time in 114 years, Shaan's music echoed through the prestigious BBC Promenade Concerts.

Spicezee Bureau

Mumbai: For the first time in 114 years, Bollywood music echoed through the prestigious BBC Promenade Concerts or Proms at the Royal Albert Hall, with Indian singing sensation Shaan giving an exceptional performance. The singer met with rousing applause as he brought an evening of Indian classical renditions to a rocking climax. The British media went gaga over Shaan’s performance and it was said to be, “suffused with a blast of colour and energy.” Talking to a news daily about the exciting performance, Shaan said, “There were more than 40 artistes who came from all over the world to perform during the festival. For the first time, Bollywood had a presence at such a prestigious event.” Shaan was reluctant initially. “Because the majority of the audience was British; almost 70 per cent of those in the hall were non-Asians. But I could tell that they were all curious about Bollywood music. I’d kept the first half very sombre and sang some of my popular numbers like Main Hoon Don, Saawariya, Chand Sifarish, Bam Bam Bole and so on. It was a three-hour performance; and we also had a popular dance group from the UK – Honey’s Dance Academy – perform along with us. I concluded the evening with Jai Ho and people just freaked out. The people in the galleries were clapping their hands, and there were more than 4000 people standing and dancing while I was singing. It was wonderful and that kept me really charge,” he said The singer also met his favourites at the event. “I met Jimmy Page, which was a fantastic interaction,” he says, adding excitedly, “And I got an autograph of George Michael! I was totally thrilled, like a little kid! Actually, the car company that provided cars for us also works for George. When I found out, I requested them to get me one autograph of his. I couldn’t meet George, but I was happy holding the autograph in my hand,” he smiles. Shaan’s family that includes his wife Radhika and two kids also accompanied him. “Both my kids, Soham and Shubh, were thrilled to see such a big crowd. Soham, who’s seven years old and grown up now, came to me saying, ‘Now the world has become my Baba’s fan club!’’” After enthralling the firangs, the singer is now set to release an album. “I plan to release my romantic pop album titled Tishnagi. Radhika, Soham and Shubh will also feature in the video,” he said. Great going, Shaan!