Showing posts with label Palak Muchhal interview. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Palak Muchhal interview. Show all posts
Our wedding celebration was a reflection of our personalities, say Palak Muchhal and Mithoon
8:09 AM
Onkar Kulkarni (BOMBAY TIMES; November 7, 2022)
Back in 2013, singer Palak Muchhal and composer Mithoon collaborated for the music of Aashiqui 2, which went on to become a massive success. Little did they know that nearly a decade later, their professional relationship would culminate into a personal one. With an elaborate three-day celebration in Mumbai that comprised of haldi, mehendi, sangeet, shaadi and reception, Palak and Mithoon formalised their relationship yesterday in the presence of their family members and friends.
While the two have known and worked with each other, it wasn’t cupid, but their parents who brought them together. Mithoon, who has composed music for films like Half Girlfriend, Kabir Singh and Radhe Shyam, among others, says, “Even though we have known and collaborated with each other on multiple occasions, there was never any kind of social connect between us. It was only in the last one year that I felt a strong connection.”
Mithoon says, “So, I spoke to my parents about it a few months ago, and soon they spoke to her parents. Then they had a formal meeting, after which we started interacting more to understand each other.”
Palak shares, “When the rishta came, my parents were very happy. Personally, I have always admired and respected him. All these years that we have known each other, we only met for professional reasons and always focused on our work. So, this thought (of spending our life together) never occurred to us, but now it feels like it was meant to be.”
Palak and Mithoon, who tied the knot yesterday, say that they complement and complete each other. Palak says, “I can say that he adds peace to my excitement.” While Mithoon adds, “She has added so much to my perspective of life. She helped me discover various facets of my personality that I was not aware of. I met myself once again through Palak (smiles).”
Talking about keeping their wedding a simple and close-knit family affair, Palak says, “Our wedding celebration was a reflection of our personalities. The idea was to celebrate everything with people who mattered to us a lot.”
Mithoon added, “The wedding ceremony was an emotional affair, and the reception party was a celebration of our Indian traditions. We both are very proud of our culture, and right from the décor and clothing, to the food, we tried our best to celebrate our heritage. Though we kept the celebrations low-key, I learnt that in Indore (Palak’s hometown), there were people who joined in the bandwagon by bursting crackers on the streets. They (fans) were really excited about this development in Palak’s life. Yeh jo apnapan hain na, agar aap ne gairon ko bhi apna hone ka ehsaas de diya, toh phir aapse bada insaan koi ho hi nahi sakta. She inspires people, and I am also inspired by her.”
Mithoon says that he feels blessed to receive so much love and warmth from Palak’s mother. He adds, “I have developed a beautiful relationship with her family. Palak’s mom has been very protective of her. She has always been by Palak’s side. The day she gave Palak’s hand to me, I felt blessed. She showed trust in me, and now I hope that I live up to that responsibility.”
Though Palak and Mithoon are busy with work commitments and are yet to plan their honeymoon, they will take a much-needed break soon. “I feel we have always been clear about our priorities. For us, family time is very important. We have been able to take our time out for things that matter to us. Striking a balance between work and personal life comes naturally to us,” signs off Palak.
There are 400 kids in waiting list, few of them are really serious; I feel responsible about their surgeries-Palak Muchhal
8:04 AM
Sugandha Rawal (HINDUSTAN TIMES; June 18, 2021)
With the second wave of Coronavirus crisis ebbing, the after-effects of the shutdown have started to come to the fore. Singer Palak Muchhal, who uses her live musical shows to raise money for underprivileged children, reveals that surgeries of over 400 kids are pending ever since the channel of money got disrupted, with no live music shows happening.
“I feel responsible about their surgeries. In fact, every night, when I go to sleep, I have this sense of responsibility and accountability, because there are more than 400 kids in my waiting list, and a few of them are really serious,” shares Muchhal, recalling how their parents are “desperate and helpless” at the moment.
The 29-year-old shares how when the live show chord got cut, she logged in to social media to fill in the void. “I thought if there are no concerts, then how will I help these children. And then online concerts started. Now, I’ve been performing almost every alternate day. Slowly kids are getting operated. I’ve to say that the adaptation from live concerts to online concerts helped,” she says.
While online gigs are gaining momentum, nothing can be compared to live shows, Muchhal maintains. “I’m really looking forward to performing live on stage live. That would be the first thing that I would do once things get more normal,” she admits.
Meanwhile, she’s glad that her “philanthropy work and music” are interconnected. “Earlier, we were able to sponsor one surgery after a show. Ever since my songs started coming in films, the concert rates are rising; we can now sponsor 14 or 15 heart surgeries with one performance,” she concludes.
Oxygen plant is Palak Muchhal’s priority at her new hospital
8:45 AM
Juhi Chakraborty (HINDUSTAN TIMES; May 11, 2021)
Singer Palak Muchhal recently revealed that she’s building a hospital in her home town, Indore, which would provide free of cost treatment to those who can’t afford medical care.
“I have always dreamt of opening a hospital, ever since I was a child. I want to create a place where people, who can’t afford surgeries or medical treatment, can get themselves treated without having to ask someone else for help,” says Muchhal.
Right now, the 29-year-old is chalking down a basic plan. “It’s in its primary stage and we’re discussing the plan and construction. It will take time, but I’m glad that I’m so close to fulfilling my dream,” she adds.
The announcement of her new hospital comes at a time when the country’s medical and health sector has come under major scrutiny amid the second wave of the Coronavirus, which has seen a massive shortage of oxygen at hospitals and in supply. Muchhal says she is taking note and will make sure that those gaps are filled at her hospital. “It’s shameful that we don’t have a basic thing like oxygen in our hospitals. This has allowed me to gather knowledge about how to be prepared for a crisis. We’ve realised that oxygen plants at hospitals are important, and we’re going to implement that,” she explains, adding that she is consulting with a team of experts including doctors and advisors for the project.
Meanwhile, the Prem Ratan Dhan Payo (2015) singer, who lives in Mumbai, is trying to help people in need. “Usually, I don’t take calls from unknown numbers, but now, I’m taking all calls and replying to all texts. People call and say, ‘Didi mere mummy papa ko bacha lo’. I have also experienced disappointment when despite arranging for a bed, the patient could not be saved. I wish I could have done something sooner,” she ends.
I’ve been lucky to have not faced nepotism-Palak Muchhal
8:27 AM
Nikita Deb (HINDUSTAN TIMES; September 23, 2020)
Singer Palak Muchhal, who has sung several songs in Bengali, Kannada and Telugu films, apart from her many Bollywood hits, says that she didn’t know anybody in the industry when she came to Mumbai. “I come from Indore. When I came to Mumbai, I was an absolute newcomer. I was fortunate enough to have met Salman Khan sir in the first week. That protected me from the struggle that I’d have to go through otherwise. As soon as I met him, he told me I’d sing a song in his film. For him to believe in an outsider and give me a chance was a very big thing,” recounts Muchhal, who sang Laapata in Khan’s Ek The Tiger (2012) soon after.
The singer adds, “Even when I got a chance to sing in Aashiqui 2 (2013), I was a complete newcomer. I don’t think nepotism has affected me at all but there are people who have faced it. As for me, I have not faced anything like that, I have been absolutely lucky.”
Muchhal calls herself an out-and-out Bollywood playback singer. But with indie music also calling for equal amount of attention among listeners, she too wanted to try her hand at it. So, she has released a new single in collaboration with her brother Palash Muchhal, and Ash King.
“I’ve been working in Bollywood primarily, and singles are a still a world that I am trying to explore. This is a good time for independent music as people are receiving it with all their heart,” says the singer.
It was because of Palak Muchhal, that we met Salman Khan-Meet Brothers
8:08 AM
In conversation with Palak Muchhal, Meet Bros' Manmeet and Harmeet Singh open up on the struggles they endured before feeling like they have finally arrived
Sonil Lulla (MID-DAY; September 30, 2019)
In our tryst to arrive at musician duos who share a great camaraderie to do justice to this property, the Meet Brothers and Palak Muchhal come as a blessing. Their interaction is generously peppered with puns and satire, but their questions reveal their deep-seated aspirations as musicians. Manmeet and Harmeet Singh have known Muchhal since she was aged seven, and are hence evidently protective. Muchhal is every bit playful (and respectful) towards them. Even as we concise this 40-minute chat for print, we suggest you catch the full low-down on mid-day.com.
Muchhal To Meet Bros
What Are The Pros Of Working As A Duo? Would You Have Rather Been Solo Musicians?
Manmeet: If we had to be solo musicians, [we wouldn't] have worked for 20 years. The thought we harboured was that one and one makes 11. Initially, it was tough, because we weren't mature enough to handle it. There's no school that teaches you how to run a business with a brother. But when you pass through the storm of understanding each other, then it comes together.
Harmeet: We always have each other's back, so it is a blessing. There are very few cons of working with a brother. In life, you have to make money with another person, be it a composer or singer. Disagreements are bound to take place. So, you might as well disagree with your brother.
As Composers, Do You Prefer To Create A Song After Receiving The Lyrics, Or Would You Rather Compose First, And Then Hand That Over To The Lyricist?
Manmeet: The past has proven that those who've created the people who've created a revolution are those who have not been masters of the field [they achieved success in]. They became masters while training on the job. That was also the case with us. We are entertainers. It's all that we wanted to do. When we were young, Harmeet would perform cabaret very well. So, I'd play with the lights to create a disco effect while he'd dance on Piya tu ab toh aaja, to entertain people. That's also how we work with our lyricists. We sit together and go with the flow. All our biggest hits have come from jamming with lyricists.
There Are Many Singers Who Don't Get A Platform To Showcase Their Talent. With Your Label MB Music, You Are Correcting That. What Was The Idea Behind Creating It?
Harmeet: It was essentially a life lesson. For 15 years, when we went about visiting different labels and didn't get a break, we know it involved a lot of struggle. When we didn't find support, we would be disappointed. Now that we know that we have the power [to give another person a chance], we shouldn't behave the same way that [the label owners did]. Our channel features a bevy of young artistes. All our videos have a small story. It's like watching a mini musical movie. We understand what the artistes want; the little things that corporates don't.
Manmeet: While there is a high in working with [veteran] singers, there's also a different kind of joy in working with new singers. Our songs shine when they're rendered by fresh voices.
What Have Been The Most Satisfying Moments Of Your Life?
Manmeet: The first one would be when we were able to relocate our parents to Mumbai.
Harmeet: I agree. I also believe that our compositions Baby doll and Chittiyaan Kalaiyaan were high points in our life. Very often, you notice how people's lives progress very slowly, even though they struggle [to achieve success]. And then, suddenly, life picks up pace. For us, Baby Doll and Chittiyaan Kalaiyaan were that push for our careers. It is after these two songs that people started noticing us. We will always show our gratitude for the people who were attached with these songs. It is because of their support that this happened. That was our turning point.
Manmeet: Do you know that it was because of you Palak, that we also met Salman [Khan]? That's because you knew him.
Harmeet: That was also important for us. We tried to reach him through 32 people. In his movies, I'd see the names of the cast members and analyse who I knew, and who could help me connect with him. No one could make that happen. Then, one day while talking to you, you said, 'Why don't you just message him, directly?' Then I took his number and messaged him. That's how Hangover happened.
Meet Bros To Muchhal
Who Is Your Favourite Singer, And What Is The Genre Of Music That You Would Want To Be Associated With?
It would be too shallow to use the word favourite for her, but I would say Lata ji [Mangeshkar]. I've always idolised her. As for the songs, there are many that I hear and hope to be given a chance to render something similar. One of them would be Lag ja gale.
As Someone Who Has Done Live Shows Since Childhood, And Then Donated That Money For The Treatment Of Cancer Patients, Do You Derive More Joy From This Act Of Kindness Or From The Awards That You Win?
I say this often — Regardless of how much money you earn or success you achieve, it can't compete with the joy you receive when you see someone smile and know that you are a reason behind it. Till today, 1,985 surgeries have been completed [for cancer patients]. I know that there are kids waiting in the hospital thinking, 'Tomorrow, Palak didi will perform, and then the day after, I can have the surgery'. A lot of people want to help others, and if I am blessed enough to do so, I must do so.
What Are You Most Sensitive About, And What Can Easily Hurt You?
I'm relatively stable, but I'm very sensitive when it comes to my family. Anything concerning my parents or my brother is what really bothers me.
Can You Chronicle Some Important Experiences You've Had With Other Composers In Bollywood?
When I came to Mumbai, I had a list of music directors I wanted to work with, and I've ticked off 90 per cent of names on that list. The person who has taught me a lot is Himesh sir [Reshammiya]. When I work with him, there's always something I can take back home; be it [a lesson on] discipline or dedication. There's so much to learn from him. Also, the way M M Kreem makes a singer sing [is noteworthy]. He makes a singer feel empowered. I also love working with Jeet Gannguli.
What Are The Aspirations You Harbour, As Musician And Individual?
I always have a plan. I want to keep on doing what I am doing. I also want to open a hospital where heart patients can be treated for free. I've already purchased a plot for it.
Salman Khan is my guiding angel and godfather-Palak Muchhal
7:55 AM
Soumya Vajpayee Tiwari (MID-DAY; November 21, 2017)
What about the show, The Voice India Kids attracted you the most?
It’s a strong brand with a unique concept. The coaching panel comprises legendary musicians. Sharing the platform with them is an honour.
Was it difficult for you to break into B-Town?
I didn’t have any connections in Bollywood. The first person I met in Mumbai was Salman [Khan] sir. He assured me that I’d be singing for his films. When the song Laapata (Ek Tha Tiger, 2012) released, multiple offers started coming my way.
So, do you consider Salman Khan your godfather?
He is my guiding angel and godfather. He gave me a chance to sing for his films and guided me along the way. After my parents, I go to him for advice.
Your voice is often confused with that of Shreya Ghoshal. How do you react to that?
It’s a compliment. But, I find it unfair for Shreya ji. She has been in the industry for almost 10-15 years. It’s unfair to compare a junior like me to her.
Tell us about your upcoming projects.
I’ve recorded 218 songs for films. They are lined up for release. I’m also working on a single.
I feel like I am living my dream-Palak Muchhal
7:55 AM
Singer Palak Muchhal talks about her latest song Hua Hain Aaj Pehli Baar for Sanam Re
Sonil Dedhia (BOMBAY TIMES; January 15, 2016)
Barely three years in the
industry and Palak Muchhal already has a roster of songs to her credit
-from Meri Aashiqui Tum Hi Ho to Prem Ratan Dhan Payo now. The singer
talks about her latest song Hua Hain Aaj Pehli Baar and her journey in
Bollywood so far. Excerpts:
What was last year like?
I started my playback career in 2012 and last year has so far been the most productive. The year 2015 started with Baatein Ye Kabhi Na (Khamoshiyan). Later, I sang in Gabbar Is Back, Baahubali and Bajrangi Bhaijaan. The year ended with Prem Ratan Dhan Payo in which I had four songs. It has been a really gratifying experience and I want to keep working hard and entertaining the audience.
How did Hua Hain Aaj Pehli Baar happen?
(Composer) Amaal Mallik and I go a long way back. I sang his very first song for a television series. For Hua Hain Aaj Pehli Baar from Sanam Re, he called me and said that the female singer has very few lines but he couldn't imagine anyone else's voice. Being a romantic song, Amaal requested me to infuse a little bit of nakhra in my voice. Sanam Re is a musical film and it is always special to sing in one since there is a lot of focus on the music. I am really glad to be a part of Sanam Re.
Tell us about your equation with Salman Khan.
Salman sir is the biggest support I have in this industry. He is the most amazing person I have ever met. He is a man with a golden heart and I consider him my godfather. I don't think I would have been in Bollywood without him. Whether it is a personal or a professional decision, I always take his advice. He always supported me and ensures that I am a part of his films. Whenever I sing for his films, I give my 1000%.
Your brother Palash is also into music.
He is a music composer and I am a singer so we have very different careers. We don't even discuss music at home, but we are always there whenever we need some help. He is doing well in his career and it's an emotional feeling to see him grow on his own feet. Also, like any siblings, we have our own share of fights and arguments but we share a very strong bond.
Palash and I have been doing concerts across the world for the last 15 years for young heart patients. We donate the entire earnings towards their operations. So far, we have collected 3.36 crore rupees and 845 heart patients have been operated on. There are 412 remaining. Their blessings are the biggest award for me and I will continue to do this work for my life. I have been getting so much love that I have tasted success without much struggle. Earlier, I was able to help only one patient from one concert but now that my songs are getting popular, I am able to help almost 10 to 15 people.
How has your journey been so far?
The journey has been exciting so far. I feel like I am living my dream. I come from a Marwari family and didn't have any connections in Bollywood. My family has always supported me. I started training when I was four years old. My mother didn't leave any stone unturned to train me. I even learnt Urdu so I could get my pronunciations right. I always thought that it would take me more than a decade to establish myself in the industry but I was lucky that as soon as I reached Mumbai, I met Salman sir because of whom I didn't have to struggle much.
A lot of actresses have started doing playback singing.
It's a good thing because earlier, we have seen singers who have also acted. I love Salman Khan's singing. He has a raw voice and is very passionate about singing. We did a duet Jumme Ki Raat (Kick) which was a different version from the film. I also love Shraddha Kapoor as a singer. She has a wonderful voice. I feel she should sing more often.
What's in the pipeline?
I am excited for 2016 as I am working with composers like Himesh Reshammiya, Amaal Mallik, Jeet Gannguli and Pritam.
What was last year like?
I started my playback career in 2012 and last year has so far been the most productive. The year 2015 started with Baatein Ye Kabhi Na (Khamoshiyan). Later, I sang in Gabbar Is Back, Baahubali and Bajrangi Bhaijaan. The year ended with Prem Ratan Dhan Payo in which I had four songs. It has been a really gratifying experience and I want to keep working hard and entertaining the audience.
How did Hua Hain Aaj Pehli Baar happen?
(Composer) Amaal Mallik and I go a long way back. I sang his very first song for a television series. For Hua Hain Aaj Pehli Baar from Sanam Re, he called me and said that the female singer has very few lines but he couldn't imagine anyone else's voice. Being a romantic song, Amaal requested me to infuse a little bit of nakhra in my voice. Sanam Re is a musical film and it is always special to sing in one since there is a lot of focus on the music. I am really glad to be a part of Sanam Re.
Tell us about your equation with Salman Khan.
Salman sir is the biggest support I have in this industry. He is the most amazing person I have ever met. He is a man with a golden heart and I consider him my godfather. I don't think I would have been in Bollywood without him. Whether it is a personal or a professional decision, I always take his advice. He always supported me and ensures that I am a part of his films. Whenever I sing for his films, I give my 1000%.
Your brother Palash is also into music.
He is a music composer and I am a singer so we have very different careers. We don't even discuss music at home, but we are always there whenever we need some help. He is doing well in his career and it's an emotional feeling to see him grow on his own feet. Also, like any siblings, we have our own share of fights and arguments but we share a very strong bond.
Palash and I have been doing concerts across the world for the last 15 years for young heart patients. We donate the entire earnings towards their operations. So far, we have collected 3.36 crore rupees and 845 heart patients have been operated on. There are 412 remaining. Their blessings are the biggest award for me and I will continue to do this work for my life. I have been getting so much love that I have tasted success without much struggle. Earlier, I was able to help only one patient from one concert but now that my songs are getting popular, I am able to help almost 10 to 15 people.
How has your journey been so far?
The journey has been exciting so far. I feel like I am living my dream. I come from a Marwari family and didn't have any connections in Bollywood. My family has always supported me. I started training when I was four years old. My mother didn't leave any stone unturned to train me. I even learnt Urdu so I could get my pronunciations right. I always thought that it would take me more than a decade to establish myself in the industry but I was lucky that as soon as I reached Mumbai, I met Salman sir because of whom I didn't have to struggle much.
A lot of actresses have started doing playback singing.
It's a good thing because earlier, we have seen singers who have also acted. I love Salman Khan's singing. He has a raw voice and is very passionate about singing. We did a duet Jumme Ki Raat (Kick) which was a different version from the film. I also love Shraddha Kapoor as a singer. She has a wonderful voice. I feel she should sing more often.
What's in the pipeline?
I am excited for 2016 as I am working with composers like Himesh Reshammiya, Amaal Mallik, Jeet Gannguli and Pritam.
Since it was Salman sir's song, I put all my heart into Jumme Ki Raat-Palak Muchhal
8:38 AM
Srishti Shinde (BOMBAY TIMES; July 25, 2014)
How did Jumme Ki Raat (Kick) happen? What was the brief given to you?
Both Salman (Khan) sir and Himeshji (Reshammiya) have been pivotal in my career. It was my dream to sing alongside Salman sir. I had told him casually once that I want to sing with him some day since he is a very good singer. I've always lent my voice to romantic numbers and didn't expect Himeshji to consider me for this song, as it is such a commercial number. Himeshji always gives a free hand, and allows me to add my own variations. The basic brief was that it's a peppy number with a slightly intoxicated feel. I was told jhoom ke gaana. Whenever I sing for Himeshji, I derive an unbelievable amount of energy and enthusiasm since he's all charged up during recordings. I also knew that it was the first song to be released, and hence it had to be grand. Since it was Salman sir's song, I put all my heart into it.
What did Salman say about your part in the song?
I was blown to bits when I heard Salman sir sing Jumme Ki Raat. He told me that he loves my part. Every time he likes something about my song, he smiles. So, even if he sends a smiley to me, I know I've done something good.
Your first association with Salman?
The first time I met him, I was 14, and he'd told me that I would soon be singing for his film. The first song was Meherbaniyan in Veer, which wasn't included in the album but was in the film. I met him when I came to Mumbai, and he called me for the TV show Dus Ka Dum, and then Lapata (Ek Tha Tiger) happened. I owe a lot to him. In fact, no one knows that he has also helped me in my mission of financially assisting poor children who are suffering from chronic diseases.
How did you get your first break?
My first break was Damadamm with Himeshji. However, I consider Lapata as my first break. I got a call from Sohail Sen and went on to record it without knowing which film it was for. I was 20 at that time. Singing in Salman sir's film was a big dream come true. Lapata gave me an entry into Bollywood. I recorded for Aashiqui 2 immediately after that, and since then have recorded a total of 142 songs.
Tell us about your association with composer Mithoon.
I had already recorded two songs with Mithoon sir before Aashiqui 2, for a film that is yet to release. Thereafter, I recorded Chahu Mai Ya Na. I was very excited since the music of Aashiqui (original) was blockbuster. With Mithoon sir, I feel very comfortable. He has a very different style of working as he gives free rein to his singers.
How did you start singing?
When I was two-and-a-half years old, there was a family function at home where all my cousins were performing. I sang Chalri Sajni Ab Kya Soche by Lataji (Mangeshkar), when mom expected me to say a poem. It was a shock to her that such a young girl could sing such a complicated song. Since then, my mom has left no stone unturned to make me learn music. I started learning classical when I was 4. In Indore, I was learning Urdu from Maulavi sahab, I would come to Mumbai once or twice a month to learn classical singing from Pt Satyanarayan Mishra. When I was 14, we shifted to Mumbai, and then I started learning Urdu from Iftaar Ansari and voice culture from Brijbhushan sir.
You sing in 17 different languages.
Although I started learning Urdu when I was very young, whenever I performed abroad, people there urged me to sing in their local language. This inspired me, and I got a lot of support from listeners as well, since they helped me understand the meaning of the lyrics. That's how I started singing in different languages. I got Photocopy (Jai Ho) after Salman sir told Sajid-Wajid that I sing in 17 languages. Every time I listened to a song, I would first learn the lyrics and then understand its meaning, which became easier with practice. When I went to Dubai, I sang in Arabic, when in Nairobi, I entertained the audience in Swahili, and sang in Malay in Singapore.
Which genres would you like to sing in?
As of now, I've been singing in all types of genres - from Bollywood to classical to ghazals. However, I would love to sing something like a Lag Jaa Gale by Lataji. She is my idol. I am eager to hear what she feels about my work.
Both Salman (Khan) sir and Himeshji (Reshammiya) have been pivotal in my career. It was my dream to sing alongside Salman sir. I had told him casually once that I want to sing with him some day since he is a very good singer. I've always lent my voice to romantic numbers and didn't expect Himeshji to consider me for this song, as it is such a commercial number. Himeshji always gives a free hand, and allows me to add my own variations. The basic brief was that it's a peppy number with a slightly intoxicated feel. I was told jhoom ke gaana. Whenever I sing for Himeshji, I derive an unbelievable amount of energy and enthusiasm since he's all charged up during recordings. I also knew that it was the first song to be released, and hence it had to be grand. Since it was Salman sir's song, I put all my heart into it.
What did Salman say about your part in the song?
I was blown to bits when I heard Salman sir sing Jumme Ki Raat. He told me that he loves my part. Every time he likes something about my song, he smiles. So, even if he sends a smiley to me, I know I've done something good.
Your first association with Salman?
The first time I met him, I was 14, and he'd told me that I would soon be singing for his film. The first song was Meherbaniyan in Veer, which wasn't included in the album but was in the film. I met him when I came to Mumbai, and he called me for the TV show Dus Ka Dum, and then Lapata (Ek Tha Tiger) happened. I owe a lot to him. In fact, no one knows that he has also helped me in my mission of financially assisting poor children who are suffering from chronic diseases.
How did you get your first break?
My first break was Damadamm with Himeshji. However, I consider Lapata as my first break. I got a call from Sohail Sen and went on to record it without knowing which film it was for. I was 20 at that time. Singing in Salman sir's film was a big dream come true. Lapata gave me an entry into Bollywood. I recorded for Aashiqui 2 immediately after that, and since then have recorded a total of 142 songs.
Tell us about your association with composer Mithoon.
I had already recorded two songs with Mithoon sir before Aashiqui 2, for a film that is yet to release. Thereafter, I recorded Chahu Mai Ya Na. I was very excited since the music of Aashiqui (original) was blockbuster. With Mithoon sir, I feel very comfortable. He has a very different style of working as he gives free rein to his singers.
How did you start singing?
When I was two-and-a-half years old, there was a family function at home where all my cousins were performing. I sang Chalri Sajni Ab Kya Soche by Lataji (Mangeshkar), when mom expected me to say a poem. It was a shock to her that such a young girl could sing such a complicated song. Since then, my mom has left no stone unturned to make me learn music. I started learning classical when I was 4. In Indore, I was learning Urdu from Maulavi sahab, I would come to Mumbai once or twice a month to learn classical singing from Pt Satyanarayan Mishra. When I was 14, we shifted to Mumbai, and then I started learning Urdu from Iftaar Ansari and voice culture from Brijbhushan sir.
You sing in 17 different languages.
Although I started learning Urdu when I was very young, whenever I performed abroad, people there urged me to sing in their local language. This inspired me, and I got a lot of support from listeners as well, since they helped me understand the meaning of the lyrics. That's how I started singing in different languages. I got Photocopy (Jai Ho) after Salman sir told Sajid-Wajid that I sing in 17 languages. Every time I listened to a song, I would first learn the lyrics and then understand its meaning, which became easier with practice. When I went to Dubai, I sang in Arabic, when in Nairobi, I entertained the audience in Swahili, and sang in Malay in Singapore.
Which genres would you like to sing in?
As of now, I've been singing in all types of genres - from Bollywood to classical to ghazals. However, I would love to sing something like a Lag Jaa Gale by Lataji. She is my idol. I am eager to hear what she feels about my work.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)