AOORA on singing Indian and Korean national anthems: It was a deeply personal honour

Singing the national anthems of India and South Korea at the Republic of Korea’s National Day Reception in Mumbai was a moment of pride and honour for South Korean singer AOORA. The performance was deeply personal for the artiste, whose Korean roots remain central to his identity, while the warmth he has received in India has fostered a bond that goes beyond music and has made the country an integral part of his life.Hosted by the Consulate General of the Republic of Korea, the reception took place at the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel on October 23. AOORA was invited to perform at the event, which celebrated the friendship between the two countries. Among those present were Rajesh Gawande, Chief of Protocol, Government of Maharashtra, and Dongwan Yoo, Consul General of the Republic of Korea, along with diplomats and industrialists.Reflecting on the experience, AOORA says, “The two anthems have different languages, melodies and expressions, but both carry a deep love for one’s country. For me, one holds the familiarity of growing up in Korea, while the other reflects a connection I have built with India. I wanted to honour the individual spirit of each. After I finished, I felt a mixture of relief, pride and gratitude. Two very important parts of my life had come together on one stage. It is a moment I will carry with me.”For AOORA, the performance also brought into focus the place both countries hold in his life. He adds, “Korea is my birthplace, and India has become my second home. One connects me to my roots, and the other reminds me of the love and acceptance I have received here. I wanted to sing each with sincerity and respect.”AOORA on Bollywood, India and Korea’s cultural tiesAOORA has often spoken about his affection for India. In a previous interaction with us, he shared, “I find India and Indians beautiful, and I connect with this country really well. The warmth I’ve experienced in India makes me feel good. India as a country has been incredibly therapeutic for me. It’s a place where the soul finds comfort amidst the chaos.”The singer first came into the limelight in India with his rendition of Bappi Lahiri’s Jimmy Jimmy (Disco Dancer, 1982) and has since been known for dancing to popular Bollywood songs. Recalling what draws him to Bollywood music and dance, he said, “Last summer, I saw a video of the song, Cham Cham (Baaghi, 2016), and found it vibrant and aligning with my style. I resonated with the idea of so many people coming together to sing and dance in the video. I feel Bollywood films reflect society and what’s happening in people’s lives. In India, I have witnessed the same flavour during Navratri and Diwali.”Beyond his love for Indian music and festivities, AOORA hopes to strengthen cultural ties between the two countries. The K-pop singer and songwriter said, “There are so many striking similarities between these two countries, and I want to bring them closer, culturally. That’s my goal. When I see people back home unaware of the real India, I try to tell them more. I want people in Korea to experience the warmth and love that I have got here.”Get the latest TV News, TV Shows and more. Download the TOI app.