In the heart of New Delhi’s Connaught Place, amidst the bustling crowds and vibrant energy, Munindra Sagar, fondly known as Delhi’s Metro Melody Man, weaves enchanting melodies with his harmonica.
Munindra Sagar is from Haridwar and used to teach English in South Delhi’s Green Park. However, the pandemic hit the education sector hard, leaving him without a job. “I lost my job following the pandemic,” Sagar says.
From a young age, Sagar was captivated by the harmonica. “I was tired of the mundane routine of life—teaching and coming home felt repetitive,” he shares. “Playing my harmonica made my day feel fulfilled and fresh.” His journey as a musician began at Rajiv Chowk metro station, where he played for commuters from all walks of life. “I liked playing for people, regardless of where they were coming from—some sad, some tired, some happy. Just enjoying my music,” he recalls.Meet Sidhartha Mallya, son of Vijay Mallya; Know about his luxurious lifestyle, relationships, expensive assets, and moreMeet Aaishvary Thackeray, the grandson of Shiv Sena founder Bal Thackeray; Know about his luxurious lifestyle, Bollywood debut, political career, and moreMeet Ram Charan’s wife Upasana Kamineni – She is an entrepreneur and heiress to a Rs 77,000 crore businessMunawar Faruqui married for second time; know about his wife Mehzabeen Coatwala, his first marriage, lifestyle, controversies, and net worth
Today, you can find Sagar near a bench in Connaught Place, his soulful melodies creating a serene atmosphere. He often plays the tune “Ek pyar ka nagma hai,” captivating listeners with his heartfelt performance. Sumedha Agarwal, a regular visitor, in her 20s, says, “His tunes touch my heart. I come often to CP and never go back without listening to him play.”
In his mid-sixties, Sagar’s dedication to music is unwavering. Inspired by Bollywood comedian Johnny Walker, he brings a nostalgic charm to his performances. “I always carry my harmonica in my pocket. I love it; it fulfils me,” he says. Despite being self-taught, Sagar’s mastery of the instrument is evident. “The mouth organ can be learned in six months, but it needs perseverance and patience. Sometimes it used to hurt my mouth, but there was always a tune in my mind that I wanted to play,” he explains. “You never know if there is a next moment to play in life, kal ho na ho.”
Sagar’s music isn’t just about entertainment. Through his performances, he spreads awareness about important social issues, like saving the girl child, using placards placed near his spot. “Music has the power to bring attention to critical issues,” he says. “I want to use my platform to make a difference. Saving the girl child is a cause close to my heart. Every note I play, I hope, reaches out and makes someone think.”
The charm of Munindra Sagar’s music lies not only in his skill but also in the emotional connection he forms with his audience. Rajesh, a local shopkeeper, says, “Every time I hear his harmonica, it brings a sense of peace. It’s a brief escape from the chaos around.” Another listener, Meera, mentions, “His music reminds me of simpler times. It’s like a bridge to my childhood memories.”
Sagar’s dedication to his craft is evident in the regulars who stop by just to hear him play. “I see people from all walks of life—office workers, students, tourists—all pause and listen. It’s like his music has a universal appeal,” notes Sunil, a nearby food vendor. Many of Sagar’s listeners become his friends, often engaging in conversations about music, life, and everything in between.
Sagar’s personality is as vibrant as his music, he often shares stories of his life with those who stop to listen. “Life has taught me many lessons,” he says with a chuckle. “One of them is to never give up on what you love. Music is my lifeline.” In addition to his street performances, Sagar has also made a mark in the entertainment industry. He starred in the Netflix film “Rajma Chawal” and appeared in the web series “Paatal Lok.”
His transition from being an English teacher to becoming a beloved street musician is driven by his passion for music. “I play to make people happy. Their love is my greatest reward,” he shares.
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