Bhamra is a tabla player from London. He has worked on the scores for films such as "Brick Lane", "Bend It Like Beckham" and "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory". He was recently appointed artistic director of the Society for the Promotion of New Music
1 Does art make a difference?
Art returns us to being childlike again. As children, we unabashedly paint, play and explore. Then, as we grow older, we have our natural freedom of expression knocked out of us and replaced by self-doubt, low morale and appropriateness.
2 Should politics and art mix?
Unfortunately, art and politics are entwined inseparably. They are two components entangled in a tug of war – and I love only one of them.
3 Is your work for the many or for the few?
Ultimately, my work is for myself. However, I want to share it with as many people as possible. I would consider it selfish on my part to limit it to a few people. I might as well try to reach as many people as possible.
4 If you were world leader, what would be your first law?
We look after our cars more than we do our bodies. It’s illegal to drive a car without an MOT. Why is it not illegal to be unhealthy? I would make everybody have an annual health check.
5 Who would be your top advisers?
A team of four: Spike Milligan, Osho, a five-year-old and a tree.
6 What, if anything, would you censor?
I wouldn’t censor anything. I want to experience life as it comes: raw, beautiful, ugly, uncertain and precious. These are words that we have created to share our experiences with each other. They are not good or bad. I don't think that the universe judges. Humans judge.
7 If you had to banish one public figure, who would it be?
I don't really want to banish anyone. Where would they go?
8 What are the rules that you live by?
Honesty, integrity, freedom and fun.
9 Do you love your country?
Yes. Where else would I be able to play with musicians from India, England, Africa, Paraguay, Colombia, China, Cuba, Italy, France, Syria, Pakistan, Japan and Australia without having to get on a plane?
10 Are we all doomed?
Yes – that's why life is precious.
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