Melodious and soulful tunes with Dharam Maharaj

Whimsical music, soulful tunes and blissful singing is heard every time music sensation, Dharam Maharaj hits the stage.
Mr Maharaj brings a new dynamic to the world of traditional Hindi music, the essence and culture of which he is re-instilling. Born and bred in Glencoe, Mr Maharaj began his music career in 1967 and drew his inspiration from music legend Mohammed Rafi. At the tender age of 21, Mr Maharaj began belting out lyrics from the song ‘Oo aaj mausam’ by Mohammed Rafi, which was one of the first songs he ever sang.
That fateful song set the pace for his singing which became easier as he honed his craft by playing music by ear, and listening to various music from many talented singers. Practice, prayer and perseverance are key in the road to success, Mr Maharaj added. “I started music as a passion, but it grew on me and has become a necessity.”
Reminiscing about his first performance in 1968, he described the experience as ‘nerve-wrecking’ and ‘knee-knocking’. He has since wowed thousands of people at a recent performance in Durban.
He has also appeared on television and radio on a program for Diwali. His most recent performance at the Dundee Hindu Temple Diwali celebration had the audience equally enthralled. Mr Maharaj has completed five CD’s and the sixth is in the making.
“The sixth CD will have my original songs”, he added with a twinkle in his eyes. The CD will be called Ashivrad, a hindi term meaning blessing. Mr Maharaj offered his advice to aspiring musicians and emphasised the importance of understanding the language you are singing in.
“Music is poetry, if you don’t understand your song how will you express it?”, said Mr Maharaj.