The Wildfire spreads

JESSICA RAI, HT, KATHMANDU: Wildfire of Darjeeling had spread from the capital of India New Delhi to Kathmandu. Its spark instantly lit the hearts of those who listened to it. The simplicity of the song that includes rock and folk flavour along with eloquent lyrics touched everyone. From one person to another through Facebook, Wildfire — Dadhelo Lagyo became contagious while SoundCloud played the song. 

But who caused this wildfire?

Bipul Chettri, Head of Art Department at Vasant Valley School, New Delhi was the source. With a unique baritone voice, he had presented a poignant piece that every listener could connect to. Again, charming through his voice and soulful melody, he put forward his second track from his album Sketches of Darjeeling at the advent of the monsoon titled Asaar. Like a pleasant rainy day, the soulful song mesmerised the soul of the listeners.

Chettri, who hails from Kalimpong, carved a niche for himself among music lovers. And the 32- year-old singer calls it “overwhelming” and is honoured that people have recognised and supported his work. In an email interview with The Himalayan Times, he mentions, “The response really took me by surprise! I am glad that my songs have connected us to our roots again ... perhaps in a more positive light!” 

With the belief that “music is what connects me with the world”, Chettri has connected with Nepali people here sharing the stories of Darjeeling. “I look forward to making more music for you,” he writes to Nepalis for their “love and support that you have shown us”. 

The awesome response has not only made him ecstatic but it has motivated him to do more music. “When Wildfire — Dadhelo Lagyo got such a big response ... finally, I thought I could go further with my musical aspirations.”

Sketches of Darjeeling is his first album where he has sung, composed and penned the lyrics. It should be out early next year. Putting more light on his album and his repertoire, he shares, “In all the songs of this album, I am exploring the different elements that makes Darjeeling — its culture, people, mountains, weather et cetera.”

Taking inspiration from the wildfire of Darjeeling, Wildfire was created while Asaar is about his fond memories of his hometown Kalimpong during the monsoons — nature and life in general have been his foremost inspirations. Most importantly, Kalimpong plays an important role in his life. 

Growing up in the small town has been “an incredible experience” for Chettri. “Every moment that I spent in Kalimpong has taught me so much about life and music.”

Though he has attended workshops of many classical guitar maestros, he is a self-taught artiste. Performing Buffalo Soldier by Bob Marley in Class III in his school concerts gave him the taste of music.

Like most musicians, “I also started with rock music. As I grew up I ventured into other forms like blues, jazz, folk, country and classical music.” He likes all kinds of music and plays the guitar and piano.

Chettri has always loved singing and playing music. And at this point of time, he is taking his love of music further with Sketches of Darjeeling. 

Meanwhile, with this album and its songs, he wants to “give our folk music a cosmopolitan outlook like American, South American, African and Catalan folk music”.

Wishing to make more music, Chettri talks of his future plans as “perhaps get home the Grammys ...”