Behzad Farkhari had a unique experience this summer. While most students were in class, working, or even taking some time off, he was performing on a world stage.
Farkhari was recently featured on Dil Hai Hindustani, a televised singing competition in India, similar to American (or Canadian) Idol. The only Canadian in the competition, he was chosen from 21,000 musicians who auditioned, eventually finishing in ninth place.
“I grew up watching shows like American Idol, and I would always think about how awesome it would be to be on a stage like that,” says Farkhari, a third-year neuroscience and psychology student at U of T Scarborough.
But it almost didn’t happen.
“I was contacted by one of their talent recruits on Facebook,” he says. “Of course, when you get something like that, it seems too good to be true. So, I didn’t give it much thought.”
That’s until he researched the show and realized that it wasn’t a scam at all.
Farkhari worked seven days a week for four months while he was on the show -- working with vocal and performance coaches to choose the best songs that fit his persona and vocal range. He also worked and performed with other musicians in the competition, which introduced him to new styles of music.
“The unique thing about this show is that anyone from any background who sings Hindi music can take part,” says Farkhari.
Dil Hai Hindustani, now in its second season, is the most high-budget music reality show in India. What makes it different from other reality shows is that it not only searches the globe for the best Hindi artists, but also expands its search to bands and duos. The acts are judged by three of the music industry’s most prominent stars. Once the Top 6 acts are finalized, voting lines open to the audience.
Music has given him a means of expression
Standing on stage in front of thousands of people would have seemed impossible years ago. Farkhari was a fairly shy child -- his family moved around a lot and by the time he would learn a new language to begin making friends, the family would move again.
His parents bought him a harmonium in the seventh grade and his passion for music blossomed.
“When I got into music and started performing, it gave me a voice and it gave me confidence.
Farkhari grew up listening to Farsi music and when he began university started performing Bollywood songs. His father is a poet and remains an influence in his own music. He explains that the lyrics in eastern music often come from famous poems, which he often chooses from both his father’s original poetry and from his collection of renowned poets.
Above all, he hopes to connect with people from all over the world with his music. It’s his way of blending together all of the places and cultures he has experienced.
“I come from an Afghan background, but I grew up in Canada and at the same time I’m singing Indian music,” Farkhari says. "It has allowed me to bridge different cultures of music for myself and for others.”
As for his plans for the future, Farkhari is focused on completing his degree but also want to pursue music more seriously. He is continuing to take lessons on vocal techniques and musical theory as well as composing and producing music – mostly love songs which he also plans on releasing soon.