Celebrated Indian percussionist and multiple Grammy nominee Bickram Ghosh has highlighted the unique creative energy of Goa, crediting it as a vital source of inspiration for his artistic projects. His comments came during discussions about his latest venture, the docu-drama 'Mahamantra – The Great Chant', directed by Girish Malik. The film made its world premiere at the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Panjim last month.
Goa: A Welcoming Melting Pot for Artistic Experimentation
Ghosh described Goa as a cultural melting pot that actively encourages artistic risk-taking. He contrasted this liberating environment with the often restrictive atmosphere of mainstream Bollywood. The artiste explained that his creative process in Goa involves absorbing the local sounds and ambience with collaborator Girish Malik, who is always receptive to new ideas.
"Goa is a place where minds are open, much like the ocean," Ghosh said. He elaborated that in the coastal state, when he presents a novel sound or idea, it is welcomed without immediate scrutiny. "Here, when you bring a sound, no one questions it." This stands in stark contrast to his experiences elsewhere, where ideas are frequently met with instant judgment about their commercial viability or contemporary relevance.
The Creative Chasm: Goa's Openness vs. Bollywood's Judgment
Ghosh did not shy away from pointing out the difference in creative acceptance. He stated that in the Bollywood film industry, innovative concepts are often prematurely rejected with comments like 'yeh aaj ka nahin hai' (this isn't contemporary) or 'yeh nahin chalega' (this won't work). This culture of immediate judgment can stifle experimentation. Goa, for him, represents the antithesis of this approach, providing a sanctuary where creativity can flow freely and without fear.
This supportive environment has directly influenced his work. Ghosh shared that many of his experimental sounds conceived in Goa have been eagerly incorporated into Malik's films, with the director often insisting, "Yeh hamare film mein hona chahiye" (This should be in our film).
Goa: A Lucky Charm for Career Milestones
The connection between Goa and Ghosh's professional achievements runs deep. He revealed that the state has been a backdrop for several significant milestones in his illustrious career. In a remarkable revelation, Ghosh credited Goa for being the place where he received the news of an Oscar nomination. Furthermore, he announced that he became the first Indian artiste to step into the metaverse, and that groundbreaking event also transpired in Goa.
"I think Goa is lucky for me," Ghosh affirmed, encapsulating his personal and professional bond with the region. His testimony underscores how geographic and cultural settings can profoundly impact artistic innovation, offering a compelling case for spaces that prioritize creative freedom over commercial conformity.
