Elnaaz Norouzi, known for her work in Sacred Games and Made In Heaven has now added another feather to her cap with the release of her latest single, HawaR HawaR. A blend of Persian melodies and Indian rhythms, the song celebrates the essence of two rich and diverse cultures and is a reflection of her Iranian roots and Bollywood influences.
In an exclusive conversation with The Free Press Journal, Elnaaz opened up about the creative journey behind the song, the inspiration she drew from her dual heritage, and the emotional connection she hopes to create with audiences worldwide. Excerpts:
Q. Tell us about your new track HawaR HawaR. What inspired you to recreate it?
A. Many people think HawaR HawaR is a Pakistani song made famous in Bollywood, but it’s actually a Persian track originally sung by Kourosh Yaghmaei. I wanted to highlight its roots while blending Persian and Hindi to make it relatable for both my Indian fans and Persian-speaking listeners. Including both languages in the lyrics video ensures everyone can connect with the song’s essence.
Q. You’ve sung in multiple languages, including Marathi and Telugu. What drives this passion for languages?
A. Languages fascinate me. When I was offered a Marathi song, I took it as a challenge. I ensured I learned the language, understood its nuances, and delivered it authentically. The same applies to Telugu. For me, every project requires perfection, and mastering the language is integral to achieving that.
Q. You’ve had quite a journey from Germany to Bollywood. What was that like?
A. Bollywood was always my dream. Growing up in Germany, I watched Bollywood films dubbed in German. I didn’t speak Hindi back then, but I was determined to learn. After coming to India, I taught myself to read, write, and speak Hindi. The journey as an outsider hasn’t been easy, but I’ve embraced every challenge to improve myself constantly.
Q. What’s next for you in 2025?
A. I have several exciting projects, including films, series, and music collaborations. 2024 was a year of growth, and I’m looking forward to showcasing all that I’ve worked on. For me, it’s about evolving with every opportunity and continuing to strive for perfection.
Q. Your determination is inspiring. Any final words?
A. Always push yourself to be better. That’s the mantra I live by!
