Shaan opens up on his cameo in Karisma Kapoor starrer ‘Brown’: ‘ It has definitely encouraged me to give acting a serious shot’ |

After spending nearly three decades as one of India’s most celebrated playback singers, Shaan is now open to exploring a new creative avenue. While music remains his first love, the singer revealed that the positive response to his brief appearance in ‘Brown’ has motivated him to seriously consider acting opportunities. In an exclusive conversation with Variety India, Shaan also reflected on devotional music, the changing recording culture, and the peace he finds through spirituality.

‘Brown’ gave Shaan the confidence to explore acting

Although his role in ‘Brown’ was only a cameo, Shaan says the appreciation he received came as a pleasant surprise. The encouraging feedback has strengthened his belief that acting could become an exciting extension of his artistic journey.Speaking to Variety India, about his acting aspirations, Shaan said, “I wouldn’t look too deeply into my performance in ‘Brown’ because it was a very brief cameo, I was literally in and out of the set. However, I am incredibly glad that the little role received such positive reactions. It has definitely encouraged me to give acting a serious shot and explore a few more of the opportunities that are currently coming my way. I am always game for trying new things, and the prospect of playing distinct character roles, experimenting with my looks, and expanding my horizons is highly exciting to me.”

Devotional music demands emotion over technique

Shaan is preparing to perform at Anandam – The Symphony of Devotion, where he will share the stage with Sonu Nigam, Shankar Mahadevan and the Nandy Sisters. For the singer, devotional performances require a completely different emotional approach compared to playback singing.Explaining the distinction, he shared, “Commercial singing is fundamentally word-centric or poetry-centric. It is highly critical to pay close attention to the emotion and the expression of the song. Whether it is a film song, a happy track, or a sad ballad, you have to modulate your voice and deeply feel that specific emotion while performing. Similarly, when rendering a spiritual or devotional song, it is not about being technical at all. It is strictly about channeling a sense of piousness, surrender, devotion, and the sheer elation that comes from singing in praise of God. Once you absorb those emotions into your system, the voice naturally emanates and communicates that sanctity.”

Young listeners are embracing spirituality in new ways

Contrary to popular belief, Shaan feels today’s generation is more connected to spirituality than ever before. He pointed to emerging trends like “bhajan clubbing” as evidence that devotional music has become both accessible and relevant for younger audiences. According to him, modern listeners are not merely following trends but are genuinely reconnecting with Indian traditions, culture and devotional music in meaningful ways.

Faith helps him stay grounded in a competitive industry

For Shaan, spirituality serves as a source of strength and stability, especially in an industry known for unpredictability and constant competition. He believes surrendering to a higher power allows him to navigate challenges with greater peace of mind.Reflecting on the role of faith in his life, he said, “I believe that everyone needs to tap into their spiritual side at some point in life. It fosters a deep sense of calm and allows you to settle into the belief that whatever happens is ultimately happening for your greater good. That peace cannot truly manifest unless you surrender to a power or presence stronger and higher than yourself. In an industry defined by intense competition and constant uncertainty, you need a stable, solid anchor that gives you answers when all hope feels lost. For me, that stability can only be derived through devotion, faith, and spiritualism.”

Shaan misses the magic of recording together

Having witnessed the music industry’s transformation over the years, Shaan admitted he misses the collaborative atmosphere that once defined recording studios. Today, most artists record remotely, leaving little room for the spontaneous creativity that came from working together in the same space.Looking back, he said, “Oh yes, I deeply miss that sense of community. Back then, singers, composers, and writers worked cohesively together within the physical space of a studio. Today, things have become highly isolated. Everyone operates out of their individual home studios and dubs their parts remotely. Proper, collaborative music sessions are a rarity now.”On the professional front, Shaan will next be seen performing at ‘Anandam – The Symphony of Devotion’. Alongside his music commitments, he revealed that the appreciation for his cameo in ‘Brown’ has encouraged him to consider more acting projects in the future.