For actor Arjun Punjj, who is presently seen in Sony SAB’s Hui Gumm Yaadein, music isn’t just something that fills the silence—it is the very rhythm of his day. Arjun remains a proud purist at heart, fiercely loyal to the golden eras of both Indian and Western melodies.
This World Music Day, Arjun opens up about why today’s global fusions often miss the mark, his non-negotiable driving ritual, and the legendary artists who will forever remain on loop in his life.
He says, “The genres of music have definitely evolved,” Arjun observes critically. “We see a lot of global fusions of musical styles today—western instruments combined with classical, or hip-hop mixed with classical traditions. But the truth is, not all of them are getting it right.”
Reflecting on a time when fusion worked perfectly, he walks down memory lane: “When I was a teenager, Leslee Lewis and Hariharan came up with tracks like Something About The Way You Smile, which instantly clicked for me. That was seamless, soulful fusion.”
“I am an un-apologetic 90s music fan,” Arjun smiles. “Singers like Kumar Sanu, Udit Narayan, Abhijeet, Sonu Nigam, and S.P. Balasubramanyam have been my favourites; their songs constantly play on loop for me. That era of songwriting was entirely unmatched.”
When he turns his attention to the West, his taste leans toward smooth, powerful storytellers. “If you ask me about songs from the West, Bryan Adams, Phil Collins, George Michael, and Stevie Wonder are my absolute favourites.”
For many, music is an evening unwind, but for Arjun, it is a daytime necessity. “Music means an absolute lot to me,” Arjun gets candid. “My playlist is turned on even before my AC is switched on when I start to drive my car. It’s an instant reflex. It relaxes me completely, clears my head, and sets the tone for whatever day lies ahead.”
“I also deeply enjoy ghazals,” Arjun concludes. “Listening to legends like Jagjit Singh, Ghulam Ali Saab, the Sabri Brothers, and the iconic harmonies of the Benjamin Sisters is an incredible experience. This World Music Day, I’m just grateful for these voices that continue to keep our roots alive.”
