Alfaaz, in his own words

Manpriya Singh 

Celebrities are seldom known for their punctuality; if at all, they are known for the lack of it. But when famous Punjabi singer Alfaaz arrives much beyond what is considered fashionably late, just an apology wouldn’t do. An explanation might. “Actually there was a miscommunication with my team as to the time of the interaction,” he sounds earnest enough for us to give him the benefit of doubt and immediately move onto some of his hit tracks Yaar Bathere, Haaye Mera Dil, Putt Jattan Da; most of which he was all set to play for his gig at FLYP@MTV Café. “I will also be playing a lot of unreleased music, which essentially talks about the unique and fun culture of the city, geri route, colleges, youngsters,” he shares a few hours before his gig.  

The journey called life 

Having grown up in the city, songs to do with the city’s culture all come naturally to him. However music wasn’t the first choice. “My father is an IFS Officer, he definitely wanted me to have a plan B in place and that’s why I completed my education with a degree in business management,” shares the pass out from Guru Nanak Dev Public School who later graduated from a fashion school.  First brush with limelight came as a crew member on the sets of Babbu Maan’s Hashar. While the song Haaye Mera Dil released in 2012. 

A fan, a co-star with Yo Yo Honey 

Together the two of them have rendered some popular tracks. As for Yo Yo Honey Singh, what does he have to say about his detractors?  “Yes, we all make mistakes, some great songs, some bad choices. I don’t believe in propagating objectification of women or abusive language. But at the same time, we have done some great works. He has also spoken against colour discrimination, or the dowry tradition. Nobody notices that.”

Bollywood will happen soon 

Before he even alludes to his upcoming acting projects, there is a disclaimer. “I am a bad actor but I will never disappoint my fans. I am working on the craft, taking workshops, attending classes. And whenever I debut with Bollywood, which is next year, it’ll be worth the wait.” Meanwhile, in the pipeline is the film Wadda Kalakaar and a situational romantic comedy Chaurasi Di Baraat. “That’s the story of a crazy family stuck in a curfew,” he signs off.  manpriya@tribunemail.com