Ismail Darbar

Biography:

Ismail Darbar, a versatile Indian artist, boasts a multifaceted career as a film score composer, instrumentalist, singer, violinist, and music director. Hailing from Surat, Gujarat, Darbar embarked on his musical journey by contributing as a session violinist for renowned music directors like Laxmikant Pyarelal, Kalyanji Anandji, Bappi Lahiri, Rajesh Roshan, Anand–Milind, Nadeem-Shravan, Jatin–Lalit, and A. R. Rahman.

His breakthrough came through his collaboration with Sanjay Leela Bhansali on the film “Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam.” Prior to this, Darbar showcased his violin skills in Jatin–Lalit’s “Khamoshi: The Musical.” His exceptional music direction in Bhansali’s “Devdas” received widespread acclaim, marking a significant milestone in his career. However, personal differences led to a cessation of collaborations with Bhansali post-Devdas.

Despite a few subsequent film projects that didn’t attain notable success, Darbar’s talents continued to flourish. Notably, in Subhash Ghai’s “Kisna: The Warrior Poet,” he composed seven out of 12 tracks after A. R. Rahman’s departure from the project, earning praise for his musical contributions.

Darbar’s influence extended beyond the realm of film as he ventured into television as a judge on singing reality shows like “Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Challenge 2005” and “Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Challenge 2007,” as well as “Amul Star Voice of India 2” and “Bharat Ki Shaan: Singing Star – Season 2” on DD National.

His creative pursuits expanded further with the release of his first private music album, “Rasiya Saajan,” in 2007, directed by S Ramachandran. Darbar also made a notable appearance on season three of the reality series “Bigg Boss” on Colors TV.

In 2018, he ventured into directing with the film “Yeh Kaisa Tigdam,” co-composing the music with Badshah (Nanu) Khan. Beyond his artistic endeavors, Darbar entered state-level politics, affiliating with the BJP Gujarat in 2011, marking a diversification of his interests and engagement in public service.