Singer-composer Vishal Dadlani has returned as a judge for Indian Idol Season 16 after a brief hiatus. During an exclusive interview, Dadlani expressed profound regret regarding the music industry’s inadequate recognition of the late Assamese singer Zubeen Garg. He asserted that the country should have acknowledged Garg’s immense contributions much earlier in his career.
Garg was a legendary figure, having recorded approximately 6,000 Bengali and 30,000 Assamese songs. Despite his prolific output, Dadlani noted that outside India’s northeastern states, many only knew Garg through a few Bollywood tracks. The impact of Garg’s artistry was so significant that his memorial site continues to draw visitors paying tribute.
Dadlani criticized the mainstream music industry for its oversight of artists like Garg, calling it a major failing. He underscored the importance of recognizing the diverse "musical gems" present across the nation. Dadlani admitted his own tribute to Garg felt both small and belated.
Discussing his return to Indian Idol, Dadlani described it as feeling like "coming home." A lengthy conversation with fellow judge Shreya Ghoshal rekindled his appreciation for the show’s collaborative and supportive environment. He highlighted the set’s atmosphere of friendship, laughter, and a shared passion for music.
Known for his candid judging style, Dadlani believes honesty is a powerful motivator for aspiring artists. He explained that a stern "no" from him often ignites a competitive fire in contestants. This encourages them to work harder and ultimately surpass his initial expectations.
This season marks Dadlani’s seventh consecutive year as an Indian Idol judge. He finds constant inspiration in the unique energy, freshness, and aspirations of each new group of singers. He recently collaborated with three former contestants, expressing immense pride in their artistic development.
Beyond the competition, Dadlani stressed the social responsibility of artists to use their platforms. He believes artists possess the ability to drive positive societal change. Dadlani urged those with sensitivity and care for others to speak out.
He acknowledged that taking a stand has sometimes resulted in professional and emotional setbacks for him. However, Dadlani remains grateful for the opportunity to voice his opinions, knowing it helps others feel heard. He concluded that leveraging art for the benefit of society is paramount.