Ganesh Hegde is proud to admit that his album is an ode to Jackson.
“There is no entertainer in this world who is not inspired by MJ. He was someone who inspired me to create songs and dances that have a shock value, clothes that set trends and videos that are larger-than- life. Basically it’s everything that is required to make a successful product. Yes, there are some songs that will remind you of the King of Pop,” says Hegde, like a true MJ fan.
Hegde is also known for choreographing Michael Jackson’s concert in India. Calling his meeting with Jackson the best 30 seconds of his life, Hegde says, “I was doing the opening act for the MJ concert in Mumbai. He had not reached the venue when we started. He arrived backstage and watched our performance. Immediately after our act was done, he vanished but sent his bodyguard to call for me and my dancers. It was a dark room and I was standing face-to-face with him. I told him that we love him and he smiled back saying that he loves us too. That was it. Those were the best 30 seconds of my life.”
Talking about his new album, Hegde, who earlier released an album titled ‘G’, says, “G had one ‘Main Deewana’ whereas this one has many such rocking dance numbers. The songs are entertaining, larger-than- life and different from what you saw in my first album.”
Hegde says it helps if there are big stars in the album. “They are the most popular actors and faces of the country. Their inclusion definitely makes the project hotter,” he puts it.
Recently Saroj Khan complained that there is no originality in Bollywood anymore. What’s his take?
“I totally agree with Sarojji. A choreographer must produce his own style and
create a unique stamp over his choreography and video direction. Unfortunately, today’s choreographers rely on super-hit music from super-hit films to get them awards and to take them to the next level,” he answers honestly.
Hegde, who has surprised us so many times with his singing and dancing skills, says he has a knack for keeping secrets and giving surprises.
“‘Main Deewana’ had tremendous shock value, so will this album and the feature film. Wait a bit. I will surprise you soon,” he leaves us wondering what’s next from this talented performer.
■ Your favourite dancer?
I like them all. I have never seen Cruise or Caprio do a dance number. Our actors are multi-talented and better than the rest.
■ Your favourite choreographer?
I am a fan of Saroj Khan and Prabhudeva.
■ Do you think anyone can dance?
The effort level will be less for someone who is born with a feel for dance. But I believe anyone who puts their mind to it can dance.
■ If you were not a choreographer, you’d be...
Well, I am a dancer, singer, music director and video director. I design costumes, visualise sets and soon will act. Besides all these I could easily be a doctor.
■ Music to you...
Music and dance connect me to the higher power within myself. I always feel happy and closer to God when I am in the groove.
■ Describe yourself in two lines.
I am a simple boy with simple dreams who has a big appetite for innovations and a bigger need to make everyone around him happy.
