The mountains have been my inspiration in life to create music: Jubin Nautiyal

His soulful voice endeared him to the masses; his calm demeanor as he talks about his love of travel is refreshing and genuine. Jubin Nautiyal, a true blue hill boy, talks about his hometown, the influence of travel on his music, and the next destination on his radar. Excerpts from an interview:

What does traveling mean to you?

Coming from the mountains, traveling is therapy for me. It gives me clarity and a good time to connect with nature, absorb its beauty and strength, explore new cultures and meet beautiful people. I have been trekking in the mountains since I was a child and that is what still motivates me today. Even when I’m working on a new project, I always think of the mountain and that makes it so much better.

Tell us a bit about your hometown memories? Would it be safe to say your heart is in the hills?

I am from a small town in Uttrakhand from Jaunsar valley. My love for the mountains is not hidden and they have been my inspiration in life to move forward, to be strong, to create music. I love being with mother nature, because the love I receive is so pure and innocent and it helps me in my music as well. As children, we used to always be outside, playing, and our life was simple and beautiful. Everyone knew each other and it was like a big house.

Had to cancel your tour due to Covid. Did you miss traveling and performing for your fans?

It’s just a shame that we had to deal with the situation once again but postponing the concert was a conscious decision made for the safety of my fans. Our promoters have also advised us to reschedule the UK tour. It will be my first time playing at Wembley Stadium in London and I hope we come back with both enthusiasm and energy. And yes, the biggest thrill is playing live for my fans and traveling with it has always been fun.

What is your first memory of traveling to a place?

There are many but one of them is visiting Kolkata. I used to visit Kolkata as a child many times, my uncle was in the railways and was posted in Kolkata. I used to stay with them in New Alipore. I have always savored Biryani and Sandesh in Kolkata, the tastes of which cannot be found anywhere.

Do you like to discover local cuisines during your travels?

Of course I do, we all do. Our country has so many different delights to offer with its cultural and geographical diversity of different states. I try local food everywhere I visit for a shoot. Our diverse and authentic food culture is a reminder, a sort of symbol of our nation’s pride. I am happy to see that our Indian cuisines are recognized worldwide.

What is your most memorable international vacation?

It would be Switzerland. It was a serene beauty with so much harmony in the surroundings. It was a surreal experience for me. The snow capped mountains, hill stations and rawness of the Alps were mesmerizing.

List the destinations you want to tick?

I am really looking forward to visiting Kerala; I haven’t been there before. I just want to go there and relax. According to my busy schedule of work and life, I deserve at least one week in a beautiful destination and for that I would like to explore Kerala in India.

Our diverse and authentic food culture is a reminder, a sort of symbol of our nation’s pride. I am happy to see that our Indian cuisines are recognized worldwide.

What does your travel playlist look like? Recommendations ?

In different places, I like to explore different genres of music. I am a big fan of Lata Mangeshkar, Kishore-da, Raffi sahab and Nusrat sahab. I also listen to a lot of other artists like Amy Winehouse, John Mayer, Jason Mraz, Damien Rice and many more.

Is there a place in India you keep going back to?

Mountains of Uttarakhand, known as the “Devbhoomi” of our nation. Uttarakhand has so many hidden, unexplored gems. I would like to go and explore all these beautiful places that look like heaven on earth. Jaunsar – Bawar is the place that belongs to my tribal area. People have to visit it to experience its beauty. There are places where the clouds are under the mountains, the fresh air, great food and smiling people. Viraat Khai is also a great place, Chakrata is a great hill station; it would be a great experience.

You have traveled extensively for concerts and musical performances. What place or event marked you?

My performance at IIT Roorkee would be one that holds a special place in my heart, but recently I visited Umrangso Island in Assam. It was a sold-out gig at The Falcon Festival, which aims to preserve migratory birds that visit Assam by traveling thousands of miles across the globe. Being a nature lover, I was very happy to be part of such a festival and to support it. India is a land of rich culture and pristine beauty and I must say that Umrangso Island in Assam is surreal with blue lakes and untouched natural beauty.