Pooja Gaitonde: Bridging Sufi soul and contemporary sound

Singer Pooja Gaitonde is committed to harmonizing traditional music with contemporary appeal, demonstrating that authenticity is key. She believes profound musical truths can be conveyed through simplicity, drawing inspiration from saints and poets. Her goal is to open doors to classical traditions, not dilute them, by infusing her soulful classical style into modern sounds.

Gaitonde asserts that Sufi music retains mainstream appeal, leveraging her classical training to connect with audiences. She acknowledges the importance of trends but emphasizes that her classical background provides a richer toolkit for contemporary relevance. She points to the enduring popularity of Sufi gatherings and Qawwali concerts as evidence of a consistent audience.

Her collaborations, such as with jazz legend Louis Banks, underscore the principle of successful fusion rooted in mutual respect. Gaitonde advocates for allowing different traditions to interact without compromise. She also addresses the challenges women face in the male-dominated music industry, noting systemic disparities in opportunities and recognition.

In an era prioritizing social media metrics, Gaitonde voices concern that artistry might be overshadowed by packaging. She advises aspiring musicians to remain uncompromising in their art while learning effective presentation. For Gaitonde, the future of music lies in the enrichment of tradition and modernity, not their exclusion.