Daler Mehndi's foot-tapping numbers and energetic stage performances don't need mention. But one might not be aware that he is an extremely spiritual musician, a rooted, humble farmer and a loving family man, when he is not on stage. Daler's latest, Raj Karega Khalsa (A Flying Jatt), a semi-rock song with Punjabi robustness, is a duet with his son-in-law Navraj Hans. This is the first time they will be singing together. In a candid chat with us, he talks about the number, his spirituality, raagas and more. Excerpts...

How did your song in A Flying Jatt happen?
The track had already been recorded by Navraj. Sachin (of Sachin-Jigar fame) felt it needed more life, so I was requested to add my bit. I introduced new words - Raj Karega Khalsa - to the song, and composed them impromptu. This became the new title. I requested Sachin to include the sound of nagaras to build it up.

When you are not singing, you are...?
I work in my farm, grow crops, take care of my cows and indulge in cooking or reading.

Tell us about your music...
I sing, depending on my state of mind or the current state of society. Tunak Tunak was written as a yearning soul communicating with God, but people danced to it. Chor Uchchakke and Athray were written out of angst towards those who maligned me. My fans danced on them as well. My intention is to make people forget their problems.

Your music is not accompanied by raunchy videos.
I believe one does not have to depend on crass words and objectify women to grab attention. To each his own, but music, dance and fine arts are gifts given to mankind to enrich the environment.