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1. Who is your biggest inspiration in life?
Not just one person, there are many. I used to sing for fun and it became my hobby. I had never thought that I would become
a playback singer one day. When I started singing, I realized that this is the thing that I liked to do and I thought that
I can have a career. And slowly I went this way. My real inspiration was Mariah Carey. I always wanted to sing like her.
But obviously, you never can sing like somebody. I tried to adopt in me what she had and it worked.
2. You came from a talent show without any formal training. What made you go so far as to winning the talent hunt?
I had agreed to meet Lata ji once in my life and only Meri Awaaz Suno provided me with that opportunity. I never thought
of being a playback singer at the age of 11. But I got a chance to sing in the movie Shastra. Adesh Srivastav was the first
person who gave me this break. Then it was fine for me. Yes, I had sung for a movie, but it was not a big thing for me. So
I just participated in Meri Awaaz Suno. I had never imagined that I’ll win. It gave a big boost to my career.
3. How do you think the music industry has evolved over the years?
The sound has changed. But the music is the same. The people have changed. They way
they listen to songs now is totally different. They like to see the songs. I am glad
that I am the part of this era where so many changes are happening. And I am glad
that I am able to adapt myself to be a better musician. Thanks to these music directors
who come up with newer songs and keep on experimenting on my voice.
4. Any favorite music directors with whom you like working?
No favorites! Vishal and Shekhar, both are my friends. Vishal, Shekhar, Anu Malik, A R
Rahman, Anand Raj Anand, Salim Sulaimaan. They have the talent and they have the songs
which are really good. They have the unique quality. All sing well. Aisa nahi hai
ke sab ek hi raaste par chal rahe hon (It’s not that all are in the same league).
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5. So many talent hunt shows are being organized and you have been a judge to these shows also. How was your experience?
The experience was amazing. I got to see so much talent in front of my eyes. I got to learn so many things. I felt that
I am at home. I don’t like to judge people. That’s why I was not a part of many reality shows earlier, because giving
them marks, numbers is not my forte. But Indian Idol was different, because you just had to express your opinion. You
just need to give them some tips. It’s all light and I enjoy it.
6. Maam, it’s the month of February. What is your opinion on Valentine’s Day?
(Laughing) I hope that I am not going to perform that day. I wish to spend time with my friends. It’s a youthful day.
Some people believe in it and some don’t. On that day, people have a good time with each other. I think it should be
like that all the time and not just for one day in the year. You can hear so many romantic songs other than
Dhik chik, dhik chik like ‘Oh my love’.
7. You love performing in colleges?
(Smiling) I love performing in colleges. That’s my favorite place.
8. Your favorite songs?
I like all my songs and I listen to all of them. But yes, my favorite is ‘Le Chale’ from My Brother Nikhil.
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