Adnan: I was in Toronto. I was a concert pianist and was involved in instrumental music. I used to play Indian classical music on the piano. That was a different circuit. Now, I am more involved in singing and composing. After my album was ready, Ashaji advised me to come to Mumbai and release it as Mumbai is the hub of Hindi music. I took my chances and came to Mumbai and everything worked out perfectly.

Sunidhi: Your songs reflect your influence of classical music.

Adnan: I had learnt jazz. I also took lessons in Indian classical music from Pandit Shiv Kumar Sharma. When I started playing Indian classical on piano, I was looked upon with suspicion. No one could believe it. Surprisingly, the conservative gurus and pundits welcomed it but hardcore listeners were very unwelcoming. They acted as if I had committed blasphemy. I had to be apologetic about my singing.

Sunidhi: (Laughs) You are a great mimic. Your expressions and style of imitating are wonderful. Tell us about your first playback song from Ajnabee, Mehbooba Mehbooba.