The Symphony of the Senses: Shankar Mahadevan Unveils the Culinary-Musical Connection
Mumbai, India – Renowned singer and composer Shankar Mahadevan, a name synonymous with musical brilliance, has revealed a fascinating perspective on creativity, drawing a compelling parallel between the art of food creation and the intricate process of music composition. For Mahadevan, these seemingly disparate disciplines are, in fact, two sides of the same artistic coin, both demanding precise ingredient selection, harmonious balance, and, most importantly, an infusion of love and dedication.
“Food creation is exactly like music creation,” Shankar Mahadevan articulated, emphasizing the profound connection he perceives between the two. He elaborates on this intriguing analogy by comparing the role of a chef to that of a composer. “In cooking, you begin with raw ingredients. In music, your raw ingredients are the seven notes. Just as a chef carefully selects ingredients and balances them in the right proportions, a composer chooses the right notes, ragas, scales and chords.” This insightful comparison highlights the foundational elements common to both artistic endeavors: the careful selection and masterful arrangement of core components.
Beyond mere selection, Mahadevan stresses the paramount importance of balance and restraint in achieving a truly memorable creation. “You cannot use every ingredient in one dish, just as you cannot use every musical note all the time. Balance is everything.” This philosophy underscores the idea that true artistry lies not in excess, but in the judicious application of elements to achieve harmony and impact. He concludes his analogy by stating, “Above all, both food and music require love, care and dedication. That is why I always draw an analogy between the two.”
Mumbai, Aug 1 (IANS) Renowned singer and composer Shankar Mahadevan has been roped in to perform at India’s handover segment at the closing ceremony of the Commonwealth Games 2026, which will take place at Glasgow’s OVO Hydro on August 2.
The common thread weaving through both these artistic expressions, according to Mahadevan, is the profound emotional resonance they evoke. “The joy of food and the joy of music are very similar. When you hear a beautiful piece of music or taste a wonderful dish, the emotion is the same, pure joy. That is why I often compare food with music. The experience they create is remarkably similar.” This powerful statement highlights the universal language of emotion that both culinary and musical masterpieces speak to the human spirit.
Mahadevan’s passion for food extends far beyond mere consumption; it’s an active exploration and a significant source of personal inspiration. “Food plays a very important role in my life. I probably watch as many culinary videos as I watch music videos.” He likens his continuous learning in the culinary world to that of a dedicated student. “Honestly, I feel like a catering student – constantly learning about different cuisines, different chefs and different techniques, and trying to recreate those experiences myself. Food is a huge source of inspiration and happiness for me,” he concludes.
This unique perspective from Shankar Mahadevan not only sheds light on his creative process but also offers a fresh lens through which to appreciate the intricate artistry involved in both cooking and composing. It underscores the universal principles of creativity – the careful selection of components, the art of balance, and the infusion of genuine passion – that transcend specific mediums and resonate across the human experience. As Mahadevan prepares for his performance at India’s handover segment at the Commonwealth Games 2026, scheduled for August 2nd at Glasgow’s OVO Hydro, his reflections serve as a reminder that true artistry, whether on a plate or in a symphony, is always a labor of love.
