If I were to write a song on Chennai, it'd have a soothing, peaceful vibe, says Anuv Jain

When the crowd in Chennai began chanting for an encore, Anuv Jain didn’t hesitate. Baarishein — already performed once that evening — made its way back into the set, this time carried by louder voices and a warmer chorus of sing-alongs. It was a moment that captured the singer-songwriter’s easy, emotional connection with the city. One of India’s most-loved indie voices, Anuv was recently in Chennai for a concert. Known for emotionally resonant songs like Baarishein , Husn , Gul and Alag Aasmaan , he talks to us about being in the city, how revisiting old songs feels like flipping through personal memories, and whether composing for films is on the horizon.What was performing in Chennai like?It was absolutely amazing. I always have a great time in Chennai, and this time was no different. The city never disappoints. During the concert, my favourite moment was singing Baarishein for the second time. I wasn’t supposed to do that, but everyone started screaming, “Once more.” I thought I couldn’t disappoint the audience, so I sang it again — and it felt incredible. Did you get the chance to explore the city?Not really. This time, I did step out briefly and went to a few eateries, but usually it’s just airport to hotel to venue. Hopefully, I’ll come back some time without work. Maybe then I’ll truly explore the city.A song of yours you’d dedicate to Chennai?If I had to dedicate one of my songs to Chennai, it would be Baarishein , because it seems to rain every time I’m here. And if I were to write a song about the city, it would be soothing. I was telling my team that Chennai feels peaceful, and I genuinely love being here.Do you revisit your old songs and feel disconnected from them?Sometimes I feel I could improve the quality now, but emotionally, they still mean the same. All my songs are memories I go back to. Listening to them takes me to the moment I wrote them. I don’t think I’ll get tired performing.On collaborations and aspirations I’d love to work with AR Rahman sir some day. Hopefully, I’ll keep getting better, and one day, he’ll be willing to work with me. He is a legend. To keep making beautiful music and putting it out into the world will always be my aspiration.