Tell us about your latest song Kyun Karoon and how is the response for it
This was the first time I worked with an actor on a non-film project . Initially , I was doubtful about it for the very reason but I am glad I have looked after this project right from the beginning .
Let ’ s go back to the beginning of your musical journey . Take us through your musical journey .
I learnt Hindustani Classical Music in my childhood days in Kolkata . My first love was dance . But I was also into sports and recreational activities . I was always interested in performing arts . While we were learning choreographies for songs and shows , I enjoyed dancing along so much ! Even during school days , I used to be ever ready to dance . It was always an escape for me when I was studying Dentistry . I went to A . R . Rahman sir ’ s school in Chennai part-time to learn more about music , even while
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I was in medical school . There was no intention of making it as a full-time musician but when Rahman sir heard me in a choir , he motivated me to start singing chorus , backing solos and a few Tamil songs . That was when I started looking at it as a full-time career possibility .
Do you have a memorable experience when you were getting trained in music that impacted your approach ?
My mom has this story that I was someone who wanted to do everything . I was not competitive ; it was always fun for me . I was not a great singer back then , but I was always ready to practice more . My teacher used to insist on practising because of my unique voice texture . When I was 5 , my mom wanted to learn Hindustani Music . My teacher at the time thought I was too young and my voice needed to mature a little more before I could start learning properly , however , once during Durga puja , I performed at the pandal and she was in attendance . That day she told my mother that I should start learning right away ! That moment keeps inspiring me to this date !
Talking about versatility , what is your approach to the whole situation and learning the song- in case you don ’ t know the language of the song ?
Rahman sir used to tell me something funny . People used to make fun of my Tamil diction . It was an interesting piece of advice – where singing should be fun . My Tamil friends used to say I was singing pure diction !
Before stepping on stage or heading towards a recording studio , what is the routine you usually follow ?
I am a very active person ! I hit the gym , play football and a lot of things more ! I ’ m more of an outdoor person , so I always ensure to get at least 30 minutes of physical exercise every day , especially if I have a stage performance or a song recording . If I have a show , I will usually do Riyaz during hair and makeup . I will play a recording of a Tanpura on my phone and sing while the make-up artists work their magic !
I am sure you learn something whenever you sing a new song . Among so many songs , which is extremely special to you and why ?
There have been instances where I have politely refused to sing a song because didn ’ t resonate a lot with the lyrics . Fortunately , I have worked with so many talented people who are extremely understanding and have great musicians . I remember this one time , Amit Trivedi called me saying that there was an angry song and he thought my voice would be perfect for it , but he ’ s always seen me smiling and never angry ! I was surprised and immediately agreed to take up the challenge . Sometimes , singing becomes a therapy , I had the time of my life when I sang Ghar from when Harry met Sejal . It is one of the best songs of Pritam . Those are indeed memorable moments ! How do you maintain your vocal health and the texture of your voice ? Is there anything special you can share with us ?
I feel working out and being physically active keeps my vocal health in balance . I also don ’ t smoke , it ’ s one of the key things that has helped me maintain the texture of my voice . I don ’ t usually follow any food or temperature restrictions like cold water unless