New Delhi, 06 May (H.S.):

Musicologist and former Delhi University professor Dr. Madhur Lata Bhatnagar advised that youth should shun ostentation, remain connected to their roots, and engage in endeavors that benefit society.

In an interview with Hindusthan Samachar on Tuesday, Dr. Bhatnagar revealed that her short film Music of Nature will be screened on May 7 during the ongoing Delhi International Film Festival (DIFF) 2026 at the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) in Delhi.

This 8-minute film conveys a message on environmental conservation and features no human characters. It portrays trees, plants, waterfalls, mountains, clouds, and the moon and stars as the sole 'performers'.

She stated, Flowers and plants dance and sing; there is a rhythm even in the flow of waterfalls. I have captured this natural music to halt the global felling of trees and make people understand the importance of nature. The film incorporates authentic sounds of cuckoos and peacocks, along with flute and other instruments.

During the interview, Dr. Bhatnagar shared her illustrious past, noting that she was the first musician to compose music for the poems of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. She revealed that on the 50th anniversary of India's independence, cassettes of her compositions were released at the Russian Cultural Centre in Mandi House in the presence of Atal himself. She has set renowned works like We are seekers of world peace, we will not let war happen, Remember them, and India's head will never bow to her own melodies.

Originally from Moradabad and having made Delhi her professional base, Dr. Bhatnagar holds a PhD in music. Her research books are still taught in universities. Recently, on Republic Day (January 26) and the 75th anniversary of the Constitution, Doordarshan broadcast five of her songs.

Addressing today's 'Reels' and social media generation, Dr. Bhatnagar emphasized that art must serve a social purpose. She said, Any artistic work must carry a social message. Youth should not chase mere showiness (materialism) but connect with their roots.

Dr. Bhatnagar is currently working on preserving endangered classical forms like Dhrupad and Dhammar. Her YouTube channel 'Madhur Lata' has become a major platform for lovers of bhajans, ghazals, and classical music.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar