Believer: Art can make a difference

Monica Dogra wishes to highlight issues through music.

MUMBAI: American-Indian singer and actor Monica Dogra hopes to start a conversation about social issues with her new single Shiver. According to her, art has the capacity to influence cultural norms.

“I don’t want to send out a message; I want to start a conversation,” said Dogra, in a statement. “I am actually trying to not explain my art anymore but rather leave it up to interpretation.”

Shiver is part of Dogra’s latest album Spit, with a concept that revolves around a girl who goes to audition at an old theatre and brings forth an array of feminine expressions. When asked what makes her touch upon sensitive topics, Dogra claimed that she does not “pre-meditate” her moves.

“These issues resonate with me … It just happens accidentally when I begin to write my music,” explained the Dooriyan Bhi Hai Zaroori hit-maker. “I don’t really pre-meditate any of it. I walk the path and these themes keep showing up. I believe in artistic responsibility and create with the premise of knowing art has the capacity to shift cultural norms,” she added. “Feminism is beautiful and much needed.”

In the video for Shiver, the central character has been essayed by Reshma Gajjar. The team behind the video also boasts of several talented individuals including director Navzar Eranee, who has served as an assistant director on films like Guru and choreographer Jasmine Albuquerque Croissant.

Published in The Express Tribune, September 30^th, 2016.

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