Anup Jalota in Bareilly Unveils New Track 'Badli Ayodhya, Ab Mathura Ki Bari Hai'
Renowned devotional singer and Padma Shri awardee Anup Jalota, affectionately celebrated as the Bhajan Samrat, visited Bareilly to attend an event organized by the Khatri Sabha. Speaking candidly about his deep personal ties to the city, the changing musical landscape among today's youth, and spiritual wellness, the maestro asserted that true inner peace stems from devotion and soulful hymns rather than substance abuse or temporary distractions.
Deep Roots in Bareilly and Cultural Legacy
Calling Bareilly his second home, Anup Jalota shared that his sister Anita resides here, making every visit a deeply emotional homecoming. He noted that the love and warmth showered upon him by local residents surpasses any major formal honor:
Connecting Souls Through Music: Emphasizing the spiritual dimension of melodies, Jalota remarked that music is far greater than mere entertainment—it is a sacred bridge connecting human souls.
Preserving Bareilly's Heritage: He urged the local youth to showcase the city's rich craft heritage—including iconic jhumkas, zari-zardozi embroidery, surma (antimony), and bamboo craftsmanship—to the world using modern platforms while retaining pride in their traditional roots.
On Youth, Stress Relief, and Spiritual Music
Addressing modern lifestyle challenges and initiatives like "Bhajan Clubbing," Jalota highlighted that the younger generation carries the nation's future:
Spiritual Peace Over Distraction: While many youths turn toward clubbing or intoxicating substances to escape everyday stress, he stressed that these provide only fleeting relief. Devotional kirtans and hymns, by contrast, offer genuine mental tranquility and emotional stability.
Timeless Appeal of Devotion: The veteran singer affirmed that India’s age-old hymn tradition remains just as relevant today. While presentation styles may evolve with time, devotional sentiments endure, drawing Gen Z wholeheartedly into spiritual music when presented authentically.
Foundation in Classical Training: Offering advice to aspiring singers, he insisted on rigorous training in classical music, explaining that classical discipline imparts depth, stability, and enduring charm to an artist's vocal delivery across all genres.
New Track: 'Badli Ayodhya, Ab Mathura Ki Bari Hai'
Reflecting on his legendary rendition of Aisi Laagi Lagan as the track closest to his heart, Jalota also announced his upcoming devotional release titled Badli Ayodhya, Ab Mathura Ki Bari Hai. Quoting lines from the hymn—"Badli Ayodhya, ab Mathura ki bari hai... Ram khade hain dhanush liye, ab bansi ki bari hai"—the veteran singer highlighted Uttar Pradesh's deep temple heritage, describing the song as a tribute to cultural awakening and enduring devotion.

