Zubin Mehta: The Maestro Who Bridges Cultures with Music

Zubin Mehta, a celebrated conductor and honorary citizen of Florence and Tel Aviv, aims to bring the healing power of music to the West Bank and Gaza. He reflects on his career, the impact of music, and the political issues in Gaza. Despite controversies, Mehta remains committed to his passion for music.

Zubin Mehta, celebrated conductor and honorary citizen of Florence and Tel Aviv, aspires to bring his music to the West Bank and Gaza, fostering peace and healing through his art. 'People need music,' Mehta passionately told PTI, reminiscing about a 1982 concert in South Lebanon where his orchestra was embraced by the audience amid peacetime.

With an enviable career spanning decades, the 88-year-old maestro recalls his first orchestral conduct at the age of 20 and remains as passionate about music and its power to unite as ever. He recently conducted 14 well-received concerts in Tel Aviv and is scheduled to return next March, hopeful for a peaceful environment.

Born into a music-loving Parsi family in Mumbai, Mehta's career took off after his education in Vienna. As the Music Director for Life of the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra, Mehta has faced political controversies but stands firm on his belief in music's universality and healing power.

Mehta's engagement with music is not confined to the west. He continues to conduct concerts in India, recently leading the Symphony Orchestra of India (SOI) and expressing admiration for their high standards. Despite political challenges and personal controversies, Mehta's dedication to music and its global impact remains undeterred.

(With inputs from agencies.)