Folk singer Umesh Barot brings Pushpa-style swagger to garba

I say, ‘As long as the festivities in Surat do not stop, I too will not bow.’” Following his performance, Divya Bhaskar held an exclusive conversation with Barot, who spoke openly about his musical journey, stage performances, energy and love for garba dancers. Watch, read and listen to Umesh Barot’s interview.

In Surat, he entertained the revelers with his singing. 'I don't have difficulty deciding what to sing at what time'

Speaking about the struggles and practice involved in the music field, he says that folk music came to him through his heritage and prenatal upbringing. Besides this, he also received training in classical music at a music college. Therefore, he does not face much difficulty with music, the atmosphere or deciding what to sing at what time. Both classical training and a heritage of folk music are part of him.

My first effort is always to begin the garba with prayers to the Mother Goddess and the name of God. The right atmosphere is created only when the singing is infused with emotion. Singing without feeling is pointless. Until I experience the divine presence of the Mother Goddess or get goosebumps, I do not enjoy it myself.

Speaking about singing with high energy for nine to 10 hours, she said the biggest secret was Mataji's blessings. "I touch the first step of the stage with my hand and climb up only after taking Mataji's name.