Soumya Vajpayee Tiwari (MID-DAY; July 4, 2017)

Ayushmann Khurrana is known for his magic behind the mic just as much as he is for his nuanced performances in front of the camera. A quick listen to his soulful songs like Pani Da Rang or Mitti Di Khushboo, and you know that Ayushmann is a purist when it comes to his music — one who believes in letting the simplicity of lyrics and music take centre stage. Not surprisingly, the purist attitude extends to his life too. “I’ve kept my life and demands simple. This helps me maintain my sanity,” he says, referring to the low-key profile he maintains despite being a star. The actor-musician opens up about his new ventures, including his latest outing, T-Series Mixtape. Excerpts:

How do you think live platforms like Coke Studio, MTV Unplugged and the recent Mixtape benefit singers?
The beauty of these platforms is that they help us create new sounds. They help build fan base among purists.

Tell us about your performance in Mixtape.
I’m mixing two of my songs, Mera Mann and Yahin Hoon Main. I’ve already recorded and shot for the episode. The curator and programmer, Abhijit Vaghani, used a lot of organic sounds. He experimented with tropical house and synth lines. It was fun performing with live singers and instrumentalists.

Are you working on any new singles?
I’m doing a couple of singles. Once I’m done with the shoot and promotional work of my next film, I will announce them.

As a singer-musician, what would you like to alter about Hindi film music today?
I’d promote minimising elements in programming. I would also encourage simplicity of thought in lyrics and music. Often, commercial demands overpower an artiste’s true voice.

What kind of music have you grown up listening to?
Retro Hindi music. I love Hindustani classical as well. My love for ghazals and Sufi music was imbibed from my father. Nowadays, I listen to indie music.