Through the Lens: Life and Politics in Asia

Singer Ash King on Music’s Pull and Purpose

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Through the Lens: Life and Politics in Asia | Society | South Asia

Singer Ash King on Music’s Pull and Purpose

The Bollywood film singer talks about music, life, and his journey from the UK to India.

Singer, songwriter, and composer Ash King, born Ashutosh Ganguly, is a well-known singer in the U.K. but these days he is found mostly in Mumbai, singing for Bollywood films. His journey into India is, of course, not an abrupt move though. His father used to perform with Indian musician Ravi Shankar in the 1960s, and the Beatles’ George Harrison has visited their house in Wembley, London. While Ash has performed at BBC’s Glastonbury Festival and London Mela, he has also been known in India for his retro Bollywood songs.

We met and interviewed him earlier this month about why he sings, how music fits into what he thinks life is, and what his life’s story is.