In an exclusive conversation with Bollywood Hungama during the recently held YES BANK Bollywood Music Project 2025, music maestro and Grammy Award-winner Shankar Mahadevan shared his perspective on the increasing role of Artificial Intelligence in the creative process of music-making. Contrary to the skepticism expressed by several artists, Mahadevan believes AI is not a threat but an enabler.
“AI is not something that will become integral just to music—it’s already an integral part of our lives,” Mahadevan said. “Technology has always evolved to make processes easier. Earlier, interviews were recorded with pen and paper; now, we can do them virtually. Similarly, AI is a tool—an assistant, a partner, a guide—that offers suggestions and triggers ideas. But the final decision still rests with the human mind.”
The composer, who headlined the opening day of the festival with Shankar Mahadevan & Friends, further elaborated on how every generation has adapted to tools that simplify work. “Seventy years ago, solving a math problem would take minutes with pen and paper—then came the calculator, then the computer, and then the internet. The human mind evolves and creates things that make processes better. AI is just another step in that journey,” he explained.
Addressing growing fears among musicians about AI recreating iconic voices and compositions, Mahadevan underlined the importance of ethics and responsibility. “Anything can be used ethically or unethically. If you use AI irresponsibly, that’s dangerous. But the same goes for anything in life—if I copy someone’s tune without giving credit, that’s unethical too. Artists must use AI responsibly, with conscience and integrity,” he said.
Mahadevan’s balanced outlook aligns with his ongoing efforts to bridge technology and tradition. In a recent collaboration under Google’s Lab Sessions—a creative series that connects visionaries across disciplines—the celebrated composer teamed up with Google researchers to explore how AI can complement India’s rich musical heritage. The initiative delves into how machine learning can support composition, preserve classical forms, and amplify creative expression without undermining the artist’s originality.
As technology continues to redefine creative industries, Mahadevan’s perspective reflects a pragmatic optimism—one that embraces progress without losing sight of authenticity. “AI can give you platforms, suggestions, and inspiration,” he concluded. “But art, emotion, and judgment—they’ll always belong to the human being.”
Also Read: Aamir Khan reacts to use of Artificial Intelligence in films: “You cannot curb a new technology”
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