Dr Karan Singh has worn many hats - maharaja of Kashmir, governor, ambassador, minister, scholar, writer. Now, as head of the ICCR, the 79-year-old

Congress leader is leading India's softpower offensive. He talks culture, politics and pop exports to Shobhan Saxena. Excerpts:

Why should the government be involved in cultural promotion?

There are many centres run by private organizations, but they are on-again, off-again kind of initiatives. We want a public-private partnership. The government can't take sole responsibility for Indian culture. It's far too rich, varied and extensive. But a cultural centre run by ICCR gives it focus and continuity.

Why focus on neighbouring nations?

We have ignored the region for a long time. We share languages and culture with our neighbours. We must have good ties with them. I am keen to have closer cultural relationship with Pakistan. We also need to engage culturally with China.

Is Bollywood part of the plan?

Filmmakers like Raj Kapoor, Guru Dutt and Satyajit Ray are part of our programmes. Bollywood is in great demand abroad, though it is not always suited to our cultural centres.

Why are you taking desi rock bands abroad? That's hardly the world's idea of 'Indian' music?

India is not just Bharatnatyam, it's also rock and pop. Personally, I'm a rock addict. I listen to one hour of pop music every day. I love Dire Straits, Billy Joel, Abba, Whitney Houston, etc. I love Bharatnatyam too. I see no conflict between classical and pop. People are surprised because they think that to be a philosopher, you have to be dull and boring.

Is globalization killing cultural diversity?

Globalization is part of us whether we like it or not. We have to take advantage of it and use it creatively. India is large enough and intelligent enough neither to go into a shell nor get swept away by globalization.

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