Pandit Rakesh Chaurasia: ‘Classical Ragas Must Remain Untouched — AI Cannot Replicate Human Emotion’ (EXCLUSIVE)

The conversation around music its original form, reinterpretations, and the growing presence of AI in the industry is intensifying, with opinions pulling in many directions. Two-time Grammy Award-winning flautist Pandit Rakesh Chaurasia believes that classic compositions should remain untouched and admired as they are, precisely because they are classics.

The maestro, who has proven his calibre across the world, In an exclusive chat with Variety India also addressed AI and said he is not worried about its rise. While technology can achieve many things, he believes it cannot replicate the human touch. He also feels audiences themselves have not changed only the format of consumption has, and that shift has its positives.

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Speaking about whether classical works should be altered, Chaurasia said, “The classic compositions must remain untouched. We already have enough liberty to express a raga through our creativity, which we call ‘upaj.’ Then why interfere with the beauty of compositions that have been enjoyed for decades and created by legendary masters with utmost thought? Ragas and purity should never be compromised. You can create separate music world, lounge or fusion to express yourself if you feel the urge.”

Addressing AI’s potential impact, he added, “AI can create water, air, food and many essential things digitally and make them available on screen. But core sensory perception needs human connection just as food across the world offers variety, yet a mother’s cooking remains an unparalleled joy.”

Chaurasia also spoke about changing listening habits, noting that shorter formats are bringing classical music to new audiences. “Audiences listen to classical music the same way earlier generations did. What has changed is the duration. Earlier, classical conferences lasted eight to ten hours. Now, a 30-second reel of pure classical music can reach even the uninitiated and introduce them to this art form. Everything remains the same only the length has changed.”