Interview with Superintendent of Police, Punjab, Gurjot Singh Kaler on "The Anti Drug Anthem"
Interviewer: Ravi Jakhu
Chandigarh, March 14, 2024:
**Q: What inspired you to create an anti-drug song, and how do you believe music can contribute to raising awareness about this issue?**
A: As a law enforcement officer, I have witnessed the devastating effects of drug abuse on individuals and communities firsthand. I felt compelled to use the platform of music to send a powerful message against drug abuse, and doing a motivational video against drug abuse emerged as a universal language to convey this message effectively. Music has the power to resonate with people on an emotional level, making it an invaluable tool in raising awareness and inspiring positive change.
**Q: Can you share the creative process behind the song?**
A: The creative process behind "The Anti Drug Anthem" involved collaboration between various talented artistes like singer Karamjit Anmol, writer Raj Fatehpur, Man Mandeep, music director Sunny Vik, Vikas and video director Turkanwal Dass Bhullar and Inder.
We brainstormed ideas, discussed the key messages we wanted to convey, and worked closely with everyone involved to craft lyrics and melodies that would resonate with listeners. It was a collaborative effort aimed at creating a song that would not only entertain but also inspire action against drug abuse. We were really blessed by the fact that Whitehill Studios came forward to support the song and released it in collaboration with PTC Channel which did the worldwide premier of the song.
**Q: Did you face any challenges or concerns when creating an anti-drug song, considering the potential impact it could have on listeners?**
A: Absolutely, there were concerns about striking the right balance between conveying a powerful message and ensuring that the song remained engaging and accessible to a wide audience. We wanted to avoid being preachy or judgmental while still delivering a compelling anti-drug message. It was also important to address sensitive issues with empathy and understanding, without glamorizing or trivializing the struggles of those affected by drug abuse.
**Q: How do you envision your song making a difference in the fight against drug abuse, and what kind of impact do you hope it will have on your audience?**
A: We hope that "The Anti Drug Anthem" will serve as a rallying cry for the youth to reject drugs and choose a healthier, more fulfilling lifestyle. By promoting positive values and encouraging resilience, we aim to empower individuals to resist peer pressure and seek help if they or someone they know is struggling with addiction. Our goal is to spark meaningful conversations about the dangers of drug abuse and inspire collective action towards building a drug-free society.
**Q: Have you received any feedback from listeners about the anti-drug song, and if so, how has the response been?**
A: Yes, the response to "The Anti Drug Anthem" has been overwhelmingly positive. We have received messages of support from listeners who have been inspired by the song's powerful message and uplifting melody. Many individuals have shared their personal experiences with addiction and expressed gratitude for shining a spotlight on this important issue. The song has sparked discussions within communities and encouraged people to take a stand against drug abuse.
**Q: Do you believe that musicians and artists have a responsibility to address social issues through their work, and how do you navigate the balance between artistic expression and advocacy?**
A: Absolutely, musicians and artists have a unique platform to amplify important social issues and drive positive change. With great power comes great responsibility, and we believe that artists have a moral obligation to use their talents for the greater good. However, it's essential to strike a balance between artistic expression and advocacy, ensuring that the message remains authentic and resonates with the audience. Collaboration and open dialogue are key in navigating this delicate balance and maximizing the impact of creative endeavors on social issues.