Music has always been a profound part of my identity as a Bengali. From a young age, the melodious tunes of traditional instruments and soul-stirring music filled my days. Growing up in Kolkata, surrounded by a rich musical heritage, it was only natural for me to develop a deep-seated passion for music.
One of the earliest memories I have is of keyboards. I was fascinated by its design and the idea of producing a good melody with a mere touch. I threw myself into the world of music, taking inspiration from musicians, and even today my most prized possessions are their CDs and cassettes. With every note I learned, I was one step closer to really understanding how I felt and as a consequence, I was also one step closer to being able to communicate this back with music.
One of the earliest memories I have is of keyboards. I was fascinated by its design and the idea of producing a good melody with a mere touch
Music, then and now
I remember that during my higher secondary years, most people were into acoustic and country music, but hardly knew much about rock or western classical music. Names like Beethoven, Bon Jovi, and Def Leppard were unfamiliar to many. Yet, my room was filled with cassettes and CDs of these musical gems. Alongside the hits of The Beatles, Guns N’ Roses, Santana, Michael Jackson, and Deep Purple, I explored these genres with great enthusiasm. I believed rock was nurtured more in the West and found myself increasingly drawn to it. Kishore Kumar, S.D. Burman, and Bappi Lahiri were my all-time favourites. Meanwhile, western classical music held a special place in my heart. Moonlight Sonata was mandatory in my playlist, as was Chopin’s Nocturnes, because I believe for a pianist and keyboardist, they are essential for developing a fine ear for music.
Music has evolved dramatically, and it’s wonderful to see how it has taken a front seat in India with modern renditions of traditional and folk songs, allowing today’s generation to connect with their roots
See, to me, music is a form of art that is complex and beautiful, yet no one can refute it. And there is no good or bad music. An unassuming song might have a catchy beat, and even the most beautiful lyrics can be ruined by a poor rendition. Today, music has evolved dramatically, and it’s wonderful to see how it has taken a front seat in India with modern renditions of traditional and folk songs, allowing today’s generation to connect with their roots. I simply love this evolution. The bands from my time are immortal. Legends were making music then, and even a century later, they will continue to be a part of everyone’s playlists.
The birth of Lakkhichhara
Throughout my college years at St. Xavier’s Kolkata, I bonded with classmates who were equally passionate about music. Together, we founded a band named Lakkhichhara, which means “vagabond” in Bengali — a name that encapsulated our restless pursuit of new musical frontiers. Our routine consisted of late-night jam sessions and undercover performances, often returning home in the early morning hours to avoid the disapproving eyes of our parents.
The name Lakkhichhara, which means ‘vagabond’ in Bengali, encapsulates our restless pursuit of new musical frontiers
By the dawn of the new millennium, Lakkhichhara had garnered a dedicated following among college students and music enthusiasts. We graced numerous festivals and programmes, and as a result, our fame skyrocketed. Our journey took us far beyond Kolkata, traversing through Asia, where we not only encountered diverse musical cultures but also indulged in the vibrant culinary tapestry of the region.
Fusion of passions: music and gastronomy
Exploring the local street foods and delicacies of Asia during our travels sparked a newfound passion for culinary exploration within me. The bustling markets of Bangkok, the aromatic spices of Hong Kong, and the hearty meals all contributed to this culinary journey. Inspired by my experiences, I started speaking of my culinary expedition on a radio show called Khetey Khetey Shono, where I could share my culinary discoveries with a curious audience.
In 2010, I embarked on a venture that combined my love for authentic Asian cuisine and the entrepreneurial spirit cultivated throughout my musical odyssey. This endeavour led to the launch of Chowman, a culinary haven in Kolkata dedicated to bringing the diverse flavours of Asia to the forefront. Just as music allows me to convey emotions through harmonies, the art of crafting delectable dishes at Chowman has become my medium for artistic expression.
The transition from music to the realm of restaurateurship has been a journey marked by exploration, creativity, and an unwavering passion. Both music and the culinary arts demand dedication, meticulousness, and the ability to evoke emotions. Just as a well-composed musical composition resonates with its audience, a meticulously prepared dish can transport diners to distant lands, immersing them in a symphony of flavours and aromas.
A personal note for the next generation
My venture into music not only shaped my identity, but also paved the way for my culinary exploration. Through Lakkhichhara, I learned the power of creativity and collaboration, which laid the foundation for Chowman — a testament to my love for Asian flavours and my desire to share them with others. Music and restaurateuring may seem worlds apart, but for me, they have always been intertwined — a harmonious journey of passion and expression.
To all the budding musicians and aspiring artistes out there, remember that your journey is unique. Embrace every opportunity, be open to new experiences, and never be afraid to venture into uncharted territories. Whether you find yourself on stage or in a kitchen, let your creativity shine and your passion drive you forward. Every dish is a new composition and every meal is a performance.
