Singer-composer Paponhas spent over two decades crafting songs that resonate with emotion and simplicity, blending the roots of Assamese folk with contemporary sounds. While his music has taken him across global stages, it is Goa that keeps drawing him back, a place he sees as both a creative refuge and a mirror of his Assamese roots.

From quiet beaches and the laid-back vibe to spontaneous jam sessions, Goa is not just a getaway for Papon; it is a space where life slows down, allowing music to breathe and evolve. Excerpts from a recent interview...

Your recent single Sabse Haseen Tu was described as a celebration of love. What inspired this track and where does it sit in your current creative journey?Sabse Haseen Tu is a song that just flowed naturally.

Sometimes you come across a melody that feels timeless, and this track felt like that. I wanted to capture the pure, uncomplicated essence of love, the kind that makes you feel light and happy. At this point in my career, I’m focusing on creating music that feels authentic and brings joy, and this song reflects that mindset. For me, simplicity reflects truth, and truth is always simple.

I believe in storytelling through my music rather than just creating a musical mix.

I also maintain the purity in my music by being selective about it. I am not a fan of singing any song that I’m not proud of or don’t feel like owning.You’ve been busy this year performing in India and across the globe. How has this tour experience influenced your connection with audiences worldwide?Playing in different countries and seeing people from diverse backgrounds connect with my music is truly special. It has taught me that music has no boundaries.

The energy from these shows has reinvigorated me, and every concert feels like a celebration of that connection.The live concert space in India has seen a massive boom recently, with global musicians performing here and Indian independent artistes getting bigger stages. How do you view this evolution? Also, what challenges do singers still face, especially around issues like safety and concert management?It’s an exciting time for live music in India.

Independent artistes are finally getting the recognition they deserve, and audiences are more experimental with their tastes. However, safety and proper management are still areas where we need to improve. Sometimes the passion of the audience can overwhelm the logistics, and it’s crucial to ensure that both the crowd and the artists feel safe and comfortable.You’ve seamlessly blended Assamese folk with contemporary sounds. How do you approach preserving traditional elements while appealing to modern audiences?I think it comes down to respect — respect for tradition and innovation. Assamesefolk music has a unique soul, and while I experiment with contemporary sounds, I make sure the essence of the folk elements remains intact.

It’s like introducing an old friend to a new crowd. You don’t change the friend; you just find a way for everyone to connect.Your song Moh Moh Ke Dhaage remains iconic. Did you ever anticipate the song’s widespread acclaim?I had no idea it would become so iconic. When I recorded it, I just focused on conveying the emotion of the lyrics. The overwhelming response was a beautiful surprise. It made me more mindful of choosing songs that resonate emotionally rather than just technically, and that’s something I carry forward in my music.What brought you to Goa this time? How was the time spent here?Goa is where I come to recharge. This time it wasn’t just about taking a break; it was about reconnecting with myself. I spent time just walking on the beach, listening to the waves. It reminded me to keep things simple, both in life and in music.During the pandemic, you chose to spend several months in Goa. What influenced that decision?

During the pandemic, I needed a place where I could breathe freely and find some peace. Goa gave me that space. The calmness of the place brought out a different side of my creativity — more introspective and grounded. I ended up writing a lot during that period. Goa is one of my favorite places because it has the right mix of urban and rural life. During the pandemic, it was the only drivable place I could imagine since airports were quite chaotic to travel through.

Goa reminds me of Assam. The red soil, the coconut trees, the laid-back vibe, the easy way of life, the fish, the rice, and the people. That’s why I keep coming back to Goa, and I even plan to eventually settle down here.