What is the story about?
From soulful ballads to chart-topping hits, Shilpa Rao has lent her voice to some of Indian cinema's most beloved songs, including Khuda Jaane, Besharam
Rang, Ghungroo, Subhanallah, and Bulleya. As the world celebrates World Music Day 2026 today, June 21, the acclaimed singer reflected on the profound role music has played in her life and career. In an exclusive conversation with Zoom, Rao spoke about music's unique ability to bring strangers together, create lasting memories, and offer comfort during difficult times. She also shared touching fan stories, her father's advice and explained why, in her words, "music equals love."
Shilpa Rao on World Music Day 2026
On the occasion of World Music Day, what does music mean to you personally? How has your relationship with music evolved over the years?
Well, I think it takes different attachments with you as you spend more and more time. And it's been something of a great love for me to listen to music, to find new music. It's always been one of the biggest loves of my life. And to be honest, if something has kept me sane and alive, I think that has to be music. So that's what it means to me.
Music is often described as a universal language. In your experience, how does it help heal, inspire, and bring people together across cultures and generations?
For this, you just have to get to a pub which has a jukebox or go to a concert and see a song that has brought people together being played, with everyone singing it together irrespective of being complete strangers. So, you know, I don't need to explain this. I mean, it's just something that one must feel. Please go to a place where there's music playing and everyone's singing together and dancing together. I think it's one of the biggest joys in life.
As an artist whose songs have touched millions, is there a fan interaction or message that reminded you of the emotional power of music?
Actually, each fan is very, very different and unique and very special. Each one has their own connection. And that is why music is so beautiful, it means different things to different people. I have couples coming up to me saying that Khuda Jaane used to be their song when they were dating and now they are married. It feels so nice to be a part of their journey. Some people come up to me and say that Barbaad has given them so much strength and courage to believe in love.
I think each one has their own connection with a song, and every single one is important. Frankly speaking, I am here because of them. They make me. It's always a fact.
In a world that often feels divided and fast-paced, what role do you think music plays in creating empathy, connection, and hope?
If a song has really connected with you in any manner, trust me, if you are with your friend, you will keep your phone on the table and vibe with it, dance with your friend, or sing it out loud with everybody. That is the power of music.
It will make you human again. It makes you a child again, and that is the beauty of music and how it connects people.
Professionally, what has been the most rewarding aspect of being able to express emotions through your voice and songs?
If a song has really connected with you in any manner, trust me, if you are with your friend, you will keep your phone on the table and vibe with it, dance with your friend, or sing it out loud with everybody. That is the power of music. It will make you human again. It makes you a child again, and that is the beauty of music and how it connects people. Well, there is one side of the entire profession that is very personal and nobody gets to see it because it's always done in solitude. Whenever we record, it's a very solitary, solo space.
I prefer a smaller studio space. It has nothing to do with size. It's cosy. It makes me look inwards. I prefer it to be very dimly lit. If there's one light on the lyrics, that's more than enough. That part of my profession follows up a call when someone says, "I have a song for you," and then you're there in that room recording all by yourself. I think it's a very beautiful space and time for me, and I cherish it every single time. All I can say is that I will never take that place for granted. It's a very important space for me.
Lastly, what message would you like to share with music lovers and aspiring musicians on World Music Day?
Just spread more and more music because music equals love. Right now in this world, in these times, we need more love and we need more music than ever. This is the best way to live life. I think this is something my dad told me, that if there's a choice between having a life with music and without music, you should always choose a life with music.
Always have music in your life in some form, and you will see how beautiful your life becomes.
